Supreme Court Slams Senthil Balaji – Only 10 Days to Respond!
The Supreme Court of India has issued a strong condemnation in the case regarding the cancellation of bail granted to former Tamil Nadu Transport Minister Senthil Balaji. The court criticized the failure to provide a response despite earlier directives asking whether he intended to continue as a minister. The court firmly stated that such delays are unacceptable and that no further extensions will be granted beyond the next 10 days.
Key Developments in the Case:
- Vidhyakumar filed a petition seeking the cancellation of Senthil Balaji’s bail, arguing that his position as a minister could influence witnesses and obstruct the investigation.
- A bench comprising Justices Abhay Oka and Augustine George Masih reviewed the case and reminded that Senthil Balaji had been asked to clarify whether he intended to continue as a minister.
- The court was displeased that no response had been provided thus far, leading to strong criticism from the judges.
Major Questions Raised by the Supreme Court:
- “Will you take advantage of the fact that no formal notice has been issued?”
- “Is it justifiable to remain silent for so long?”
- “Do you intend to continue as a minister?”
The court has now made it mandatory for Senthil Balaji to respond within 10 days. It also ruled out any further extensions.
Allegations Against Senthil Balaji:
Senthil Balaji, who served as Transport Minister in the AIADMK government, has been accused of a job recruitment scam in which he allegedly took bribes in exchange for securing employment in government bus services.
Following an investigation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Senthil Balaji in June 2023. The Madras High Court rejected his bail request, leading him to approach the Supreme Court. On September 26, 2023, the Supreme Court granted him bail, and the very next day, he was sworn in again as a minister in the Tamil Nadu government.
This move triggered intense political criticism, and Vidhyakumar filed a fresh petition in the Supreme Court, urging the cancellation of his bail on the grounds that his ministerial position could interfere with the legal proceedings.
Next Steps in the Case:
- Senthil Balaji must submit his response within 10 days.
- After that, the Supreme Court will decide whether to revoke his bail.
This verdict is expected to have significant political implications in Tamil Nadu.
