V Senthil Balaji Granted Bail, Likely to Return to Ministerial Role

Chennai: V Senthil Balaji, who was recently granted bail by the Supreme Court in a money laundering case, is expected to be reinstated as a minister in Tamil Nadu. Sources suggest that Balaji might be assigned the portfolios of electricity, non-conventional energy development, prohibition, excise, and molasses, which he previously held before his resignation.

Earlier this year, Balaji resigned following his arrest in February over allegations related to money laundering. The Chief Minister, MK Stalin, then delegated Balaji’s previous portfolios to Thangam Thennarasu and Muthusamy. However, with recent developments, speculation about a cabinet reshuffle has heightened.

Chief Minister Stalin has hinted at potential changes in the state cabinet. During a recent interaction concerning the possible elevation of Udhayanidhi Stalin to the position of Deputy Chief Minister, Stalin remarked, “There will be no disappointment. But there will be changes.” The announcement about any reshuffle is anticipated upon the Chief Minister’s return from his scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

Stalin took to the social media platform X to express his contentment about Balaji’s release. He stated, “In the present scenario where the Enforcement Department has been converted into a department for oppressing political opponents, the Supreme Court remains the only reprieve. Even during the Emergency, no one was sentenced to so many days in jail.”

He further claimed that political conspiracies had aimed to break Balaji’s resolve during his imprisonment. “I welcome my brother Balaji, who is returning as a stronger person,” Stalin added.

In a similar incident earlier, K Ponmudy, the Higher Education Minister, faced legal challenges after a verdict from the Madras High Court sentenced him to three years in prison in a disproportionate wealth case. During his legal proceedings, Ponmudy’s portfolios were temporarily held by RS Rajakannappan.

Balaji’s arrest and his prolonged detention were part of a contentious political atmosphere in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Governor‘s intervention, including a controversial dismissal of Balaji from his ministerial post without consulting the Chief Minister, further fueled political tensions. Stalin subsequently argued that the governor lacked the authority to dismiss a minister, leading to a legal confrontation.

Ultimately, the Madras High Court observed that having a minister without a portfolio was “a constitutional travesty.” Following these legal and political battles, Balaji resigned in February 2024, a decision approved by the governor.