New Delhi: The Supreme Magistrate has dealt a significant wrack-up to Congress leader Pawan Kheda. The noon magistrate has stayed the order of Telangana High Magistrate in which he was granted one week's transit anticipatory bail. Kheda has not received firsthand relief due to the Assam government's petition.
Where did the matter begin?
FIR registered versus Pawan Kheda in Assam. The recrimination is that he made serious allegations well-nigh the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma like having three passports, due to which he came into controversy. Fearing arrest, Khera sought transit anticipatory ladle in the Telangana High Court.
What relief did the High Magistrate give?
The Telangana High Magistrate had granted him one week's transit anticipatory ladle on April 10. The magistrate had moreover said that during this period, Kheda can go to the concerned magistrate of Assam and wield for regular bail.
Why did the Supreme Magistrate have to come?
The verdict was not winning to the Assam government. He challenged the High Court's visualization in the Supreme Court. It was argued that Kheda deliberately chose Telangana High Court, whereas the matter pertains to Assam. This is tabbed “forum shopping” in legal language, that is, finding a magistrate of your choice. The Supreme Magistrate heard the specimen and stayed the High Magistrate order for the time being.
Now what will be the impact on Kheda?
The Supreme Magistrate has sent him a notice, he will have to reply within three weeks. But one relief is that if he directly asks for anticipatory ladle in the Assam court, then this order of the Supreme Magistrate will not come in the way. This implies that the path remains open.
What is the political significance of this decision?
This matter has once taken political form. On one hand, Congress is calling it political harassment, while on the other hand, Assam government is calling it a matter related to serious allegations. This step of the Supreme Magistrate can make this dispute increasingly sensitive.
Now it remains to be seen whether Kheda chooses the path of Assam magistrate or fights in the Supreme Court, this picture will be well-spoken in three weeks.
