Former Tamil Nadu minister and senior Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader V Senthilbalaji has filed for anticipatory bail in the alleged Rs 35-crore horse-trading case. He claims the accusations against him are politically motivated and lack direct evidence. The Madras High Court is set to hear his plea on Wednesday.
The case originated from a complaint by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) MLA N Elaiyaraja, representing the Uthangarai Assembly constituency. Elaiyaraja alleged that he was offered Rs 35 crore to vote against the Speaker during a proposed resolution in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. Thirunavukkarasu, claiming affiliation with a survey organization, reportedly contacted Elaiyaraja on behalf of certain individuals from a prominent party.
According to the complaint, Thirunavukkarasu persisted after Elaiyaraja refused the offer, even resorting to threats against the MLA and his family. The Triplicane police registered a case under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Investigations revealed alleged involvement of Senthilbalaji and another accused, Ashok Kumar, in contacting the MLA through Thirunavukkarasu.
Senthilbalaji, in his bail petition, vehemently denies any role in the purported conspiracy. He argues that no concrete evidence links him to the bribery attempt or threats against the MLA. The petition highlights the absence of any material like call records, messages, or financial transactions connecting him to the alleged offense. Senthilbalaji asserts that his arrest without substantial evidence would violate legal principles and suggests the case is driven by political vendetta.
