Senthil Balaji Appears From Prison Bed, Remand Extended To Aug 7

Former minister V Senthil Balaji, currently unwell, appeared through video-conferencing from Puzhal Central Jail before a court on Friday.

Principal Sessions Judge S Alli granted his request to adjourn proceedings and extended his judicial custody until August 7.

In his plea, Balaji mentioned that his petition before the Madras High Court challenging the sessions court’s refusal to discharge him from the case is still pending. During the virtual appearance, prison authorities informed the judge that Balaji had vomited and felt dizzy earlier in the day, leading to his treatment at the prison hospital. Due to fatigue, he remained in bed.

Balaji was arrested on June 14, 2023, by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case related to a cash-for-jobs scam during his tenure as the transport minister in the previous AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu. Following his arrest, he underwent cardiac bypass surgery at a private hospital.

The ED later took him into custody for questioning, after which he was remanded in judicial custody. The court has been periodically extending his remand.

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