Senthil Balaji tells SC: No bail terms breached as minister

New Delhi

DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Minister V Senthil Balaji told the Supreme Court that his appointment as a minister after being granted bail in a money laundering case did not violate any court-imposed conditions. In an affidavit, he said seeking public office based on popular mandate cannot be held against him. Balaji, who received bail on September 26, 2024, said there was no legal or constitutional bar against him taking up a ministerial role.

He alleged that the plea seeking a review of his bail could be politically motivated and backed by opposition forces. Balaji stressed that no witness had claimed influence or pressure after his appointment, and any vulnerable witness could request protection through the state’s Witness Protection Scheme.

He added that courts cannot interfere with the Governor's discretion to appoint or remove a minister. Denying delays in the trial, Balaji said he was cooperating and committed to ensuring a fair trial, including fast-tracking cases involving key witnesses.