Congress leader Pawan Khera has been granted anticipatory bail by the Supreme Court of India in a case related to his remarks about Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.

The top court’s decision provides Khera protection from arrest while the investigation continues in the matter, which includes allegations of defamation and forgery.

Case stems from remarks and allegations

The case originates from statements made by Khera during a press conference, where he alleged that the Assam Chief Minister’s wife held multiple foreign passports and had undisclosed assets abroad. These claims were strongly denied by both Sarma and his wife, who described them as false and politically motivated.

Following the remarks, a complaint was filed, leading to an FIR under various provisions, including defamation and related charges.

Legal journey before Supreme Court relief

Khera had earlier faced setbacks in lower courts, including the rejection of his anticipatory bail plea by the Gauhati High Court. He subsequently approached the Supreme Court seeking protection from arrest.

During the proceedings, Khera argued that arrest in the case was unnecessary and would amount to humiliation rather than justice.

What the court’s decision means

The Supreme Court’s order grants interim protection, ensuring that Khera cannot be arrested immediately while legal proceedings continue. The case will now proceed as per law, with investigations and hearings expected to continue in the coming weeks.

Several important changes related to LPG cylinders have come into effect from May 1, impacting both consumers and businesses across India. The most significant update is a sharp increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices, while new restrictions aim to curb misuse of connections.

According to latest updates, the price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder has been increased by Rs 993, taking the rate in Delhi to around Rs 3,071.50. This steep hike is expected to impact restaurants, hotels, and small businesses that rely heavily on commercial gas.

Domestic LPG prices remain unchanged

Despite the increase in commercial cylinder rates, there has been no change in domestic LPG cylinder prices. Household consumers will continue to pay the existing rates for 14.2-kg cylinders, providing some relief amid rising fuel costs.

Dual LPG connections under scrutiny

Authorities have tightened rules around LPG usage, particularly targeting dual or multiple connections. The move is aimed at preventing misuse and ensuring fair distribution of subsidised cylinders. Reports indicate that stricter monitoring mechanisms, including eKYC verification and tracking systems, are being implemented.

New delivery and booking rules likely

Changes are also being introduced in the LPG booking and delivery system. Consumers may need to follow updated procedures such as OTP-based delivery verification and revised booking intervals. These steps are designed to improve transparency and reduce fraudulent practices in cylinder distribution.

Global factors driving price increase

The rise in commercial LPG prices is largely linked to global energy market disruptions. Ongoing geopolitical tensions have pushed crude oil prices higher, leading to increased fuel costs worldwide.

West Bengal witnessed high political tension late Thursday night after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) strongroom in Kolkata amid allegations of irregularities raised by her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

The development came just days before the counting of votes for the 2026 Assembly elections, intensifying the already charged political atmosphere in the state.

TMC alleges ballot boxes opened without agents

The TMC claimed that ballot boxes were opened without the presence of authorised party representatives, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. Party leaders staged a sit-in protest outside the strongroom, demanding transparency and stricter monitoring.

According to reports, Banerjee visited the counting centre in the Bhabanipur constituency and spent several hours inside the strongroom to personally inspect the situation. She later warned against any attempt to tamper with the voting process and called for stronger safeguards, including CCTV monitoring.

The party also cited alleged visual evidence suggesting that ballot boxes had been accessed without proper oversight.

Election Commission rejects allegations

The Election Commission dismissed the allegations, stating that all procedures were followed as per protocol and that EVMs and ballot boxes remain secure.

Officials clarified that certain strongroom openings were conducted as part of standard procedures, including handling of postal ballots, and that political parties were informed in advance.

BJP counters claims, calls it ‘fear tactics’

Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rejected the TMC’s accusations, alleging that the ruling party was attempting to create confusion ahead of the counting day.

They described the claims as politically motivated and aimed at influencing public perception before results are declared.

High-stakes contest ahead of results

The late-night developments highlight the intense political rivalry between the TMC and BJP in West Bengal. With counting scheduled in the coming days, tensions remain high as both sides closely monitor the security of EVMs.

The 2026 Assembly elections in the state have already seen record voter participation, making the outcome crucial for all major political players.