India, May 1 -- The Supreme Court has granted anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case linked to alleged defamatory remarks against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.

The court directed Khera to cooperate with the investigation, appear before authorities when summoned, and ensure he does not influence witnesses or tamper with evidence. He has also been restricted from leaving the country without prior permission of the court.

The decision came after the Gauhati High Court earlier rejected Khera's bail plea, describing him as a "flight risk" and noting serious allegations including cheating and forgery.

During the hearing, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Khera, arg...