Raid linked to FIR filed by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife; Congress alleges political vendetta
New Delhi, April 7: A team of Assam Police on Tuesday searched the Delhi residence of Congress leader and media department chairman Pawan Khera in connection with a case registered in Guwahati. The operation, carried out with assistance from Delhi Police, has intensified political tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.
Police Action and Seizures
According to Assam Police, the search was conducted following a First Information Report (FIR) filed by Riniki Bhuiyan, wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, at the Crime Branch police station in Guwahati.
Additional Police Commissioner Debajit Nath said the team reached Khera’s residence to question him but did not find him present. During the search, officials seized electronic devices and what they described as “objectionable materials,” which are expected to be examined as part of the investigation.
A Delhi Police official confirmed that the Assam Police team arrived at Khera’s Nizamuddin East residence around 11 am and left after completing the search in the early afternoon.
Whereabouts of Pawan Khera
Police said Khera’s current location is not immediately known. Sources indicated that he may have travelled to Hyderabad prior to the raid, though the reason for his visit has not been officially confirmed.
Investigators stated that efforts are underway to trace him for questioning in connection with the case.
Background of the Allegations
The FIR stems from statements made by Khera at a recent press conference, where he alleged that Riniki Bhuiyan possessed multiple foreign passports and had undisclosed assets abroad, including in the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
These claims, which Khera said were based on documents, were denied by Bhuiyan, who subsequently filed a complaint alleging defamation and related offences.
Chief Minister’s Response
Reacting to the developments, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that law enforcement agencies would take necessary steps to pursue the case. He also suggested that the matter could widen, indicating that the investigation may examine the origins of the documents cited by Khera.
Congress Calls It ‘Political Vendetta’
The Congress party strongly criticised the police action, calling it an attempt to silence opposition voices. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge said raising questions about those in power is a legitimate role of the opposition and called for a transparent investigation into the allegations.
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the move reflected an effort to intimidate critics rather than follow due process. Party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate also accused the Assam government of misusing law enforcement agencies instead of responding to the issues raised.
Context and Political Significance
The development comes amid heightened political activity and ongoing tensions between the BJP and Congress at both state and national levels. Allegations of misuse of investigative agencies have frequently surfaced in recent years, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
Legal provisions allow police to conduct searches and seizures as part of an investigation following an FIR, but such actions often draw scrutiny when they involve political figures.
Public Impact
While the case centres on political allegations, it raises broader concerns about the use of investigative agencies and the balance between accountability and political rivalry. The outcome of the investigation could have implications for both legal proceedings and public discourse.
Conclusion
With the investigation underway, authorities are expected to examine the seized materials and locate Khera for questioning. The case is likely to remain in focus as both sides continue to trade allegations, adding to the ongoing political contest. (With inputs from H.S.)
Inputs & Images courtesy: Hindusthan Samachar (H.S.)
Edited by: Dikshita Bollu
Last Updated on: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 7:20 pm by Bollu Dikshitha | Published by: Bollu Dikshitha on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 7:20 pm | News Categories: India
About The Author
