Madras High Court grants anticipatory bail to Senthilbalaji and brother in bribery case

The Madras High Court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to former DMK minister V. Senthilbalaji and his brother R.V. Ashok Kumar in a case involving allegations of a bribe offer to a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) MLA.

Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan ordered the two to appear before the investigating officer twice a day until further orders and cooperate with the investigation.

The case stems from a complaint by TVK MLA N. Elayaraja, who represents the Uthangarai constituency, claiming he was offered a bribe of ₹35 crore. The police have alleged that the accused attempted to destabilise the government by poaching MLAs.

Senior counsel N.R. Elango, representing the petitioners, argued that the case was politically motivated. He stated that the complainant's allegations about an attempt to topple the government were merely perceptions, and no actual monetary transaction took place. He also noted that the Legislative Assembly Speaker was elected unanimously, and there was no reason for a no-confidence motion.

Government counsel R. John Sathyan opposed the bail, calling the case serious. He said the investigation had revealed that the accused targeted 10 TVK MLAs, and some accused had stayed at a hotel in Chennai to execute the plan, as confirmed by mobile tower data. He added that the probe had led to Bengaluru, where 'startling revelations' were made, and suggested hawala money might be involved.

The court granted bail on conditions, including that the petitioners cooperate with the investigation and not tamper with evidence.