SC questions Senthil Balaji’s quick return as TN Minister post-bail

| Updated: 02 December, 2024 5:53 pm IST

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday raised serious concerns over the swift reinstatement of Senthil Balaji to the Tamil Nadu Cabinet as a State Minister, following his release on bail in a money laundering case linked to a recruitment scam.

A bench comprising Justices AS Oka and AG Masih observed that Balaji’s immediate reappointment could create an impression of potential witness intimidation. “This Court grants bail; the next day, you become a Minister?! Anyone would believe this could lead to pressure on witnesses. What is happening here?” the bench questioned.

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Despite these remarks, the Court rejected a plea to revoke the bail granted to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader in September. However, it emphasized the need to evaluate whether witnesses in the ongoing case could testify freely without any undue influence arising from Balaji’s reinstatement. The Tamil Nadu government has been directed to address this concern.

Balaji was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on June 14, 2023, over alleged money laundering linked to irregularities during his tenure as Transport Minister in the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) government from 2011 to 2015. The allegations pertain to corruption in the appointments of bus conductors, drivers, and junior engineers.

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After his bail applications were rejected by the trial court and the Madras High Court, Balaji approached the Supreme Court, which granted him conditional bail on September 24. The conditions included prohibiting him from contacting witnesses, surrendering his passport, and cooperating fully with the trial without seeking delays.

The Court will continue to monitor the impact of Balaji’s reappointment on the ongoing case, with a focus on ensuring that witnesses can testify without fear of intimidation. The next hearing is scheduled for December 13, where further instructions will be provided based on the developments.