THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Nov 28: The Supreme Court rejected the bail application of DMK minister V Senthil Balaji on Tuesday, who had been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a case related to money laundering.
Sought bail on health grounds
Balaji sought bail citing health reasons, and the Supreme Court heard his appeal challenging the Madras High Court’s decision on October 19, which denied his bail application. The High Court had expressed concerns that if released on bail, Balaji might potentially influence witnesses in the case.
SC permits to approach trial court
After reviewing the health reports, a bench comprising Justices Bela M Trivedi and SC Sharma from the apex court concluded that Balaji’s health condition was not severe. They granted Balaji the freedom to seek regular bail by approaching the trial court.
“Any observation made in the interim order against the petitioner on merits shall not come in the way of the petitioner in filing regular bail application,” the bench stated.
The matter was dismissed as withdrawn, and the plea was withdrawn, as the bench indicated that it was not inclined to entertain the matter.
The Supreme Court had previously mandated that Balaji submit his medical records for review.
Arrested by ED in June
Balaji was arrested by ED on June 14. He is facing charges in a money laundering case linked to a cash-for-job scam investigated by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). The Cash-for-Jobs scam, according to ED, took place when he served as the Transport Minister under the previous AIADMK government.
Underwent heart surgery in June
Balaji was brought to a government hospital in Chennai after he reported having chest pains following his arrest on June 14.
On June 15, the Madras High Court granted him permission to be transferred to any private hospital of his choosing. He was subsequently brought from the Multi Super Speciality Hospital run by the Tamil Nadu government to Kauvery Hospital, which is located in Alwarpet.
He underwent heart bypass surgery on June 21.
