Chennai, 6 October (H.S.) : Senior advocates Abhishek Singhvi and Amit Anand Tiwari, representing the Tamil Nadu government, opposed the transfer, arguing it would be an unfair reflection on the state judiciary. The Supreme Court on Monday declined to entertain a plea by former Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK leader V. Senthil Balaji, which sought clarification on a previous court order regarding his ability to be reappointed as a cabinet minister while facing trial in the alleged cash-for-job scam.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi rejected the core contention made by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, who argued that the court's April 28 order did not contain any explicit injunction against Balaji holding a ministerial post. Senior advocates Abhishek Singhvi and Amit Anand Tiwari, representing the Tamil Nadu government, opposed the transfer, arguing it would be an unfair reflection on the state judiciary.

The bench took note of this opposition and asked the State government to submit its formal response, while also requesting names from all parties for the appointment of a Special Public Prosecutor, indicating the serious procedural steps being considered to advance the lengthy trial. Balaji had resigned from the M. K. Stalin-led cabinet in April 2025.

The bench, while stating that the court cannot prevent an appointment, emphasized that it must ensure the scheme of justice prevails, especially if a person in a position of power impacts the state's atmosphere or the trial's fairness. Justice Kant also questioned the timing of the clarification application, coming after a previous judge who had directed him to resign had retired. Balaji ultimately withdrew the plea after the court's strong remarks.

During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Enforcement Directorate, along with counsel for the scam's victims, questioned the move, noting that the court had previously given Balaji an ultimatum to choose between post and freedom, warning of bail cancellation if he did not step down.

Furthermore, in a connected matter, the Supreme Court suggested transferring the cash-for-job scam trial, involving state officials and the former minister, to a neutral ground like Delhi.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary