The principal sessions court in Chennai has dismissed the discharge plea of former minister V Senthilbalaji in a case related to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The court has ordered the production of Senthilbalaji for the framing of charges.Principal Sessions Judge S Alli, who heard Senthilbalaji’s discharge petition, issued the orders on Thursday. The judge also considered two new petitions from Senthilbalaji, which requested the original counterfoils of City Union Bank in Karur related to the PMLA case and forensic assistance to test the authenticity of the bank documents provided to him.
Senthilbalaji’s counsel raised significant concerns about the authenticity of the documents served earlier by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). However, the ED opposed these submissions, arguing that Senthilbalaji was filing multiple petitions to delay the investigation.
After reviewing the submissions, the judge dismissed all of Senthilbalaji’s petitions, including his plea for discharge from the case. The matter has been scheduled for July 22 for the formal framing of charges.
Additionally, the judge extended Senthilbalaji’s judicial custody until July 22. This decision marks a critical juncture in the ongoing legal proceedings against the former minister, who continues to face serious charges under the PMLA.
The dismissal of Senthilbalaji’s discharge plea underscores the court’s determination to proceed with the case, despite the defense’s efforts to challenge the authenticity of the evidence presented by the ED. As the case moves forward, all eyes will be on the July 22 hearing for further developments.