Tue Apr 08 18:38:24 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Minister Defends Continued Service Amidst Money Laundering Trial
**Chennai, April 9, 2025** – Tamil Nadu Minister for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise, V. Senthilbalaji, has asserted his right to remain in office despite facing trial in a money-laundering case linked to an alleged cash-for-jobs scam. In an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court on Tuesday, the Minister argued that his appointment doesn’t violate any bail conditions or laws.
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) and a complainant, K. Vidhyakumar, had sought the cancellation of Senthilbalaji’s bail, fearing he might influence witnesses. The ED alleges Senthilbalaji played a central role in a kickback scheme during his tenure as Transport Minister, involving the Metropolitan Transport Corporation and the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation.
Senthilbalaji, represented by senior advocate A.M. Singhvi, countered these claims, stating that the ED’s fears lack substantial evidence and that Vidhyakumar, not even a witness in the trial, lacks standing to challenge his position. He further suggested that Vidhyakumar’s actions are politically motivated.
The Minister highlighted that the trial is in its early stages, involving over 2,200 accused and 500 witnesses, suggesting this move is an attempt to prolong his incarceration. He emphasized that securing bail after 15 months of imprisonment demonstrates the lack of merit in the allegations. The Minister maintains his innocence and his right to participate in public life until legally disqualified. The Supreme Court will now consider Senthilbalaji’s arguments.
First Piper 