Tue Apr 08 08:18:19 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Minister Senthilbalaji Defends Position Amidst Witness Influence Allegations
**Chennai, April 8, 2025** – Tamil Nadu Minister V. Senthilbalaji has refuted allegations of witness tampering in the ongoing cash-for-jobs scam investigation, asserting his right to continue in his ministerial role. In an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court, he argued that his appointment doesn’t violate any laws or his bail conditions granted in September 2024.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had accused Mr. Senthilbalaji of influencing witnesses. The Supreme Court had previously sought clarification on whether he deemed it appropriate to remain a Minister while facing criminal charges.
Mr. Senthilbalaji’s affidavit contends that the Supreme Court’s bail order didn’t prohibit him from holding ministerial office. He further stated that complainant Vidhya Kumar hasn’t presented specific allegations of witness influence. He characterized the ED’s application to revoke his bail as “unmaintainable and devoid of substance.”
The Minister’s bail, granted in September 2024 after over 15 months of incarceration, was justified by the Supreme Court on the grounds that liberty cannot be withheld as punishment. The case involves three FIRs, multiple chargesheets, over 2,000 accused, and more than 600 witnesses. The charges include criminal conspiracy, cheating, and corruption.
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