Supreme Court Grants Bail to Ex-Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji

Balaji, accused in a money laundering case linked to a cash-for-jobs scam, was released after over a year in custody under strict conditions.

The Supreme Court granted bail to former Tamil Nadu minister V Senthil Balaji, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in June 2023.
Balaji faces charges of money laundering related to a cash-for-jobs scam during his tenure as Transport Minister in the AIADMK government from 2011-2016.
The court imposed strict bail conditions, including bi-weekly appearances before officials, a ban on tampering with evidence or witnesses, and surrendering his passport.
Chief Minister MK Stalin welcomed Balaji's release, criticizing the ED for allegedly targeting political opponents and hinting at his possible reinstatement in the state cabinet.
Balaji's arrest and prolonged detention had caused significant political controversy, with accusations of political vendetta following the BJP's loss in the Karnataka Assembly election.