Chennai, 30 July (H.S.):

The Madras High Court on Thursday dismissed former Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK MLA V. Senthil Balaji’s anticipatory bail petition in a corruption case registered by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) over alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC).

Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan declined to extend protection from arrest, holding that custodial interrogation was required considering the nature and gravity of the allegations. The court observed that investigators should be given an opportunity to examine the alleged conspiracy and financial transactions in detail.

The prosecution alleged that Balaji and others misused their positions and manipulated processes connected with TASMAC operations, resulting in substantial losses to the State exchequer. The court took note of these allegations while considering whether pre-arrest bail could be granted at this stage of the investigation.

The DVAC registered the FIR on July 28 against Balaji and several others in connection with alleged irregularities between 2021 and 2025, when he held the Electricity, Prohibition and Excise portfolios. The case includes allegations of conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, falsification of records and corruption.

Investigators alleged that Balaji conspired with six others and entities associated with distilleries, breweries, transportation and bottling, besides unidentified TASMAC officials, to manipulate official processes and misappropriate public funds.

Balaji denied the charges, maintaining that the FIR contained vague allegations without identifying a specific tender, contract or transaction directly connecting him with the alleged wrongdoing. He also alleged political motives behind the case.

Senior Advocate N.R. Elango, representing Balaji, argued that TASMAC operated as an independent corporation and that the Minister was not involved in awarding tenders or its day-to-day administration.

The defence also referred to Enforcement Directorate searches at TASMAC offices and related proceedings pending before the Supreme Court.

Rejecting the defence arguments, the High Court concluded that the seriousness of the accusations and requirements of the investigation justified custodial interrogation and dismissed Balaji’s anticipatory bail plea.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman