In a recent development, the Supreme Court has turned down the bail plea of DMK minister V Senthil Balaji, who is currently under arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in relation to a money laundering case. The minister had sought bail on the grounds of health concerns, but the apex court refused to entertain the request.

The Supreme Court's decision came after reviewing an appeal challenging the Madras High Court's rejection of Balaji's bail application on October 19. The High Court had justified its decision by expressing concerns that if released on bail, Balaji could potentially influence witnesses involved in the case.

Balaji's plea was centered around health reasons, but the bench of Justices Bela M Trivedi and SC Sharma, after examining health reports, concluded that his medical condition was not severe enough to warrant bail on health grounds. Consequently, the Supreme Court granted Balaji the option to approach the trial court to seek regular bail.

This development adds another layer to the legal proceedings surrounding the money laundering case, as the Supreme Court's decision emphasizes the need for a thorough examination of the health conditions presented in bail applications. Balaji now has the opportunity to pursue his case in the trial court, leaving the final decision on bail in the hands of the lower judiciary.