Money Laundering Case: SC Refuses to Entertain Senthil Balaji’s Bail Plea

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to entertain the bail plea of DMK minister V Senthil Balaji.

Balaji, arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case, sought bail on health grounds.

The apex court was hearing an appeal against the Madras High Court’s October 19 order dismissing his bail plea, citing concerns that he might influence witnesses if released on bail.

After reviewing health reports, a bench of Justices Bela M Trivedi and SC Sharma found no serious health condition and granted Balaji the liberty to approach the trial court for regular bail.

The bench clarified that any interim order against Balaji would not hinder him from filing a regular bail application.

With the court expressing reluctance to proceed, the plea was withdrawn, leading to the dismissal of the matter.

Earlier, the top court had asked Balaji to submit his medical reports.

The Madras high court, while rejecting the bail plea, noted that Balaji’s health condition did not seem to necessitate release on bail.

Senthil Balaji was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on June 14 in connection with alleged irregularities in the selection of bus conductors, drivers, and junior engineers within the Tamil Nadu Transport Department. These appointments took place during Balaji’s tenure as the Transport Minister in the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) government between 2011 and 2015. Balaji later aligned with the DMK in 2018.