DMK leader V. Senthil Balaji was granted anticipatory bail by the Madras High Court on Wednesday in connection with a Rs 35-crore bribery case. The case, registered by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC), involves allegations of corruption during Balaji's tenure as Tamil Nadu's Transport Minister.
Court Ruling and Conditions
Justice G. Jayachandran of the Madras High Court granted the relief after hearing arguments from both sides. The court imposed certain conditions, including that Balaji must cooperate with the investigation and appear before the DVAC as required. He was also directed not to tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.
Balaji's Argument
In his petition, Balaji contended that he had not been named in the First Information Report (FIR) and alleged that he was being dragged into the matter for political vendetta. His counsel argued that the case was a result of a conspiracy by political rivals to tarnish his reputation ahead of upcoming elections.
“The petitioner has not been arraigned as an accused in the FIR. The allegations are vague and lack any specific evidence linking him to the bribe,” the petition stated.
Case Background
The DVAC had registered the case in 2023 based on a complaint that Balaji had accepted a bribe of Rs 35 crore from a private bus operator in exchange for granting permits and routes. The agency claimed that the money was routed through multiple shell companies and intermediaries. However, Balaji denied all allegations, calling them baseless.
During the hearing, the DVAC opposed the bail, arguing that Balaji was a high-ranking politician who could influence witnesses and tamper with evidence. The agency also claimed that the investigation was at a critical stage and that custodial interrogation was necessary.
Political Reactions
The bail decision has sparked reactions from political parties. The ruling DMK welcomed the court's order, with party spokesperson saying, “The truth has prevailed. Balaji has been vindicated, and the allegations were politically motivated.”
On the other hand, opposition parties, including the AIADMK and BJP, criticized the grant of anticipatory bail. AIADMK leader said, “The court should have considered the gravity of the corruption charges. This sends a wrong message to the public.”
Impact on Tamil Nadu Politics
This case has been a major talking point in Tamil Nadu politics, with the DMK accusing the previous AIADMK government of using investigative agencies to harass its leaders. Balaji, a close aide of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has held key portfolios such as Transport and Electricity. The bail is likely to boost the DMK's morale ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
Legal experts note that while anticipatory bail is not an acquittal, it provides temporary relief to Balaji. The DVAC is expected to continue its investigation, and the case will be closely watched for its political implications.
