Senthil Balaji’s judicial custody extended till 13 Oct

The Principal Sessions Court in Chennai today (29 September) extended minister Senthil Balaji’s judicial custody till 13 October. Balaji was produced before the court via video conference from the Puzhal prison, where he is currently lodged. On 20 September, the court had dismissed his bail plea. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed his bail plea saying that he could influence witnesses and tamper with the evidence as he is a minister in the government, who had formerly held portfolios like Transport, Excise and Electricity. The court also said that the medical issues referred to in the bail petition were not of such nature that they could not be taken care of by doctors at the prison hospital.