New Delhi : Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera on Saturday described the grant of anticipatory bail by the Supreme Court of India in a case registered in Assam as a “victory for personal liberty” and constitutional values, while alleging misuse of state machinery for political vendetta.

In a statement issued after securing relief, Khera thanked his legal counsel, led by Abhishek Manu Singhvi, and expressed gratitude to senior Congress leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, K. C. Venugopal, and Jairam Ramesh for their support during the legal proceedings.

The case relates to remarks made by Khera alleging that Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, spouse of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, held multiple passports. Following the statements, Assam Police registered an FIR against Khera on charges including forgery and defamation.

While granting anticipatory bail, the apex court observed that the allegations and counter-allegations appeared, at a prima facie level, to be influenced by political rivalry. The court also took exception to certain observations made earlier by the Gauhati High Court, terming them “erroneous” and not based on a proper assessment of the material on record.

The court directed Khera to cooperate with the ongoing investigation, refrain from influencing witnesses or tampering with evidence, and not leave the country without prior permission from the competent authority.

Reacting to the development, Khera said the order was “not only a personal victory and a source of relief,” but also a reaffirmation that “in a constitutional democracy, personal liberty cannot be sacrificed for political vendetta.” He concluded his remarks with the phrase, “Satyameva Jayate.”