Former Tamil Nadu Minister V. Senthil Balaji and his brother Ashok Kumar have communicated to the Triplicane Police in Chennai, affirming that they have not fled or avoided legal obligations. This declaration questions the basis on which they were summoned for an inquiry related to allegations of destabilizing the previous DMK government.
The Madras High Court had previously granted the brothers anticipatory bail with the condition to present themselves before the Triplicane Police Station and assist in the investigation. Despite this, they did not comply with the directive to appear before the police.
Senthil Balaji and Ashok Kumar clarified that they are not mentioned as accused in the FIR and argued against being compelled to attend questioning solely on that ground. They emphasized that if the investigating agency wishes to interrogate them, a formal notice must be issued as per the provisions of Section 35(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
In their correspondence, Senthil Balaji highlighted his willingness to cooperate with the investigation within legal boundaries, stating that he has not evaded the process. He underscored his status as an elected public representative and a business owner, asserting his commitment to legal proceedings.
The brothers have requested specific protections before meeting with the investigators. They asked that their appearance in this inquiry should not lead to their arrest in any other case and sought assurance of access to necessary medical facilities during the investigation.
The communication outlines the terms under which the brothers are prepared to engage with the investigation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to all legal procedural safeguards.
Police sources disclosed that the Triplicane Police are reviewing the letter’s contents and deliberating on the subsequent steps. Investigators are anticipated to analyze the concerns raised by the brothers, including the absence of their names in the FIR and their demand for a formal notice before any interrogation.
