Sanjay was the real power behind the throne and all politicians were aware of this.

To wash one's dirty linen in public

To give one a long rope

We should <u><em>give a wide berth</em></u> to bad characters.

It is a matter of gratification for me that he has <u><em>turned a new leaf</em></u>.

To be above board

To put one's hand to plough

To take with a grain of salt

I <u><em>stood my ground</em></u> inspite of many pressures.