ED opposes granting bail to Senthilbalaji

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has refuted allegations of tampering with digital evidence against the jailed DMK leader V Senthilbalaji in a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The investigation agency made its stance clear before the Madras High Court (MHC), dismissing claims of tampering as a misconception harbored by the former minister. Appearing before Justice N Anand Venkatesh on behalf of the ED, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) ARL Sundaresan asserted that the petitioner, Senthilbalaji, expressed dissatisfaction with the provisions of Section 439 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and Section 45 of the PMLA. The ASG highlighted the petitioner’s status as a former minister who resigned from his position just a day before his bail hearing, suggesting an attempt to manipulate the legal process for personal gain. Despite resigning from the cabinet, Senthilbalaji remains a figure of influence, according to the counsel representing the ED. The ASG argued that the petitioner’s past conduct indicates a propensity to interfere with vital witnesses if granted bail, underscoring concerns about potential tampering with evidence. The ED’s assertion comes amidst a heated legal battle surrounding allegations of financial impropriety and money laundering against Senthilbalaji. The former minister’s attempts to secure bail have been met with resistance from the prosecution, citing fears of witness tampering and obstruction of justice. @@@@