The Gauhati High Court has rejected the anticipatory bail plea filed by Congress leader Pawan Khera in connection with a criminal case registered in Assam.

The case stems from a complaint filed by Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, following remarks made by Khera earlier this month.

A single-judge bench heard arguments from both sides earlier this week and reserved its order before delivering the verdict on Friday. With the rejection of anticipatory bail, Khera no longer has protection from arrest in the case.

Background of the case

The FIR against Pawan Khera was lodged after he made allegations during a press conference on April 5, claiming that the Chief Minister’s wife possessed multiple passports and undisclosed overseas assets.

Following these statements, legal proceedings were initiated in Assam, invoking multiple charges including defamation, cheating, and forgery.

Arguments in court

During the hearing, Khera’s legal team argued that the case was politically motivated and that arrest was not necessary, asserting that he was not a flight risk.

On the other hand, the Assam government opposed the plea, stating that the case involved serious offences beyond simple defamation and required custodial investigation.

Supreme Court’s earlier stance

Before approaching the Gauhati High Court, Khera had sought protection from arrest from the Supreme Court. However, the apex court declined to extend relief and directed him to approach the appropriate court in Assam.

What happens next

With the High Court denying anticipatory bail, the legal proceedings against Khera are set to continue, and he may now face arrest depending on the course of the investigation.

The case has also triggered political reactions, adding to tensions between the Congress and the Assam government.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired a high-level meeting with bank heads and key stakeholders to assess cybersecurity risks linked to artificial intelligence (AI) in the banking sector.

The meeting comes amid global concerns over advanced AI models that could potentially expose vulnerabilities in financial systems. Authorities discussed how such technologies may be misused to exploit software weaknesses and compromise sensitive banking data.

Banks asked to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks

During the discussions, banks were advised to take pre-emptive measures to secure IT systems, protect customer data, and safeguard financial assets.

The government emphasised the need for robust cybersecurity infrastructure, including stronger monitoring systems and improved incident response protocols. Banks were also encouraged to enhance internal preparedness against evolving digital threats driven by AI technologies.

Focus on real-time threat intelligence sharing

A key takeaway from the meeting was the push to establish a real-time threat intelligence sharing mechanism between banks, regulatory bodies, and cybersecurity agencies such as CERT-In.

This system is expected to help identify emerging risks early and enable faster response across the financial ecosystem, reducing the chances of large-scale disruptions.

Concerns linked to advanced AI models

The review gains significance in light of concerns around advanced AI systems, including models that reportedly highlight vulnerabilities in widely used software environments.

Officials noted that while AI offers significant benefits, it also introduces new challenges, particularly in cybersecurity, requiring coordinated action across institutions.

Government adopts proactive approach

The meeting reflects the government’s broader strategy to stay ahead of technological risks while promoting digital growth.

With increasing adoption of AI in financial services, authorities are focusing on ensuring that innovation is matched with strong safeguards to maintain trust and stability in the banking system.

Polling for the 2026 Assembly elections is underway in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, with voters turning out in large numbers across key constituencies.

In West Bengal, voting is being held across 152 constituencies, with around 3.6 crore voters expected to participate in this phase. Security arrangements were tightened, and long queues of voters were seen at polling stations from early morning.

Turnout rises steadily through the day

Voter participation increased consistently as polling progressed. By afternoon, turnout had crossed the halfway mark in both states, indicating steady engagement.

As per latest updates till 5 PM, West Bengal recorded 89.92% turnout, while Tamil Nadu reported 82.24% voter participation.

Large electorate participates in phase 1

In West Bengal, nearly 3.6 crore eligible voters took part in the first phase across several districts, including Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri.

Tamil Nadu is witnessing a three-way contest between the DMK-led alliance, the AIADMK-BJP alliance, and actor Vijay’s entry into the political space.

Sporadic incidents reported

Polling has been largely peaceful, though isolated incidents were reported, including an attack on BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul’s car and a boycott reported in parts of Tamil Nadu.

Despite these disruptions, voting continued without major interruptions, and authorities maintained overall control.

High-stakes political contest

The elections are being closely watched as major political parties compete for power. West Bengal is witnessing a closely fought contest, while in Tamil Nadu, key regional rivals are battling for control of the state Assembly.

The outcome is expected to play an important role in shaping the political landscape of both states.