Shillong, June 14: Tamil Nadu Power and Excise Minister V Senthil Balaji was arrested on Wednesday by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) following searches conducted at locations associated with him as part of a money laundering investigation. The arrest came after an extensive questioning session under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) related to a cash-for-jobs scam.
The ED initiated the raids on Tuesday at the minister’s residence, where he was present at the time. At approximately 1:30 am, upon being informed of his impending arrest by the investigative agency, the minister complained of chest pain and was subsequently transferred to the Omandurar government hospital in Chennai.
Outside the hospital, a scene of high drama unfolded as the DMK leader arrived. Supporters gathered in protest against the actions of the ED, while the minister, visibly in distress, was seen crying out in pain while lying inside a car. Due to observed irregularities in his ECG, he was later moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for further medical attention.
Given the circumstances, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was deployed at the Omandurar government hospital in Chennai, where Senthil Balaji was admitted for medical examination.
“Senthil Balaji was taken into custody by the ED and subsequently brought to the Omandurar government hospital. It appears that he was unconscious upon admission. This arrest is entirely unlawful and unconstitutional, and we intend to challenge it legally,” stated Senthil Balaji’s lawyer and DMK leader, NR Elango.