The Supreme Court of India has called for a review of Tamil Nadu Minister V Senthil Balaji’s bail, expressing concerns that his continued position in the state cabinet could influence witnesses in the ongoing cash-for-jobs scam trial. The court’s remarks came after hearing an application filed by the victims of the scam, who sought to have the bail granted by the top court in September 2023 set aside.
A bench led by Justice Abhay S Oka noted that Balaji’s role as a cabinet minister could have a significant impact on the large number of victims and public servants involved in the case. “He wants to continue as minister. If there are large numbers of witnesses who are victims and public servants, what will happen to them with him holding a position as a cabinet minister?” Justice Oka remarked, emphasizing that Balaji’s position could potentially influence the trial proceedings.
The court has directed the state government to provide a detailed list of victims and public servants who are witnesses in the case. It has scheduled the next hearing for January 15, 2024.
Balaji is facing separate investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the state police regarding allegations of bribery in exchange for jobs in the Tamil Nadu state transport department during his tenure as transport minister from 2014 to 2015. The case continues to be investigated, and the ED has raised concerns about Balaji’s reappointment as a minister shortly after his bail was granted. The agency argued that his position as a minister with authority over state-run transport corporations could potentially lead to witness intimidation.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, expressed worries that even while in jail, Balaji had considerable influence, pointing out that a crucial witness failed to appear for the trial just a day after his release. In response, Balaji’s lawyer, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, argued that no victim had come forward to claim any threat or undue influence from the minister.
The court noted the unusual circumstances surrounding Balaji’s quick reappointment as a minister and highlighted concerns over the delay in the trial. The bench also instructed that the case be handled by a trial judge with a lighter caseload to ensure swift proceedings.
The ongoing case and the concerns raised about witness safety and influence have prompted the Supreme Court to scrutinize Balaji’s bail further. With the hearing set for mid-January, the future of his position in the state cabinet remains uncertain.
