The Madras High Court is scheduled to consider former Tamil Nadu Minister V. Senthilbalaji’s anticipatory bail plea on Wednesday regarding the alleged Rs 35 crore horse-trading case involving an attempt to influence a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) MLA. Senthilbalaji, seeking protection from arrest, claims he is falsely accused for political reasons and lacks direct evidence linking him to the conspiracy. The case revolves around allegations that TVK MLA N. Elaiyaraja was offered Rs 35 crore to support a proposed no-confidence motion against the Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
The police arrested eight individuals, including Thirunavukkarasu, suspected of being an intermediary in the attempted horse-trading operation, following the complaint. Investigations suggest the involvement of Senthilbalaji and his brother, Ashok Kumar, with summonses issued for questioning. However, both men failed to appear before the investigating officers, prompting further investigation. Ashok Kumar has also filed for anticipatory bail, with his plea set for hearing on Wednesday before Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan, known for handling cases involving Members of Parliament and Members of the Legislative Assembly.
Senthilbalaji, in his petition, denies any connection to the alleged attempt to influence the TVK legislator, attributing the accusations to political motives. He argues that there is no substantial evidence to support his arrest and requests protection during the ongoing investigation. The horse-trading case, a politically sensitive matter in Tamil Nadu, involves police probing attempts to sway the votes of elected representatives. The High Court’s decision on the anticipatory bail pleas of Senthilbalaji and Ashok Kumar is anticipated to significantly impact the investigation.
