Senthil Balaji case: SC asks Madras HC to expedite the resolution of case

Hours after a two-judge bench of Madras High Court delivered a split verdict in the habeas corpus petition of arrested Tamil Nadu Minister V Senthil Balaji, the Supreme Court has issued directions to the Chief Justice of Madras High Court to assign the case to a new bench and decide the case at the earliest possible time.

Appearing for Enforcement Directorate (ED) Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta urged the apex court to transfer the case before itself as the case may get delayed if it stays in Madras HC. SG argued that since Balaji is a minister, there is a chance that evidence may be tampered with.

Senior Counsel Kapil Sibal, who appeared for Balaji, argued that the Supreme Court cannot assume High Court's position merely because a split verdict has been passed and asked the court not to transfer the case before itself.

The court noted that it would be better if the case is finally decided at Madras High Court as they would have the assistance of another opinion of the third judge. Thus the SC directed the Madras HC to decide the case at the earliest possible time. The Supreme Court has also kept the petitions before it pending and listed them for hearing on July 24.