Senthil Balaji's Brother Moves Madras High Court Seeking Anticipatory Bail In Case Alleging He Offered ₹35 Crore Bribe To TVK MLA

When the matter came up for hearing before Justice C Kumarappan, the State Public Prosecutor John Sathyan informed the court that the petition was filed only yesterday and requested time to get instructions in the case. Allowing the request, the court adjourned the hearing to July 6. (Monday).

On June 26, Elaiyaraja had given a complaint in the Triplicane Police Station alleging that he was contacted over the phone by a person named Thirunavukkarassu who informed Elaiyaraja that a major political party would be moving a resolution against the Speaker in the Assembly and urged Elaiyaraja to vote in their favour. It was submitted that Elaiyaraja was offered Rs 35 Crore for the same, and he was threatened with dire consequences if he did not act in the particular manner.

On July 1, three persons were arrested by the police in connection with the case. The police later said that, as per the investigation, Elaiyaraja was contacted at the behest of Senthil Balaji and his brother Ashok Kumar.

In the plea seeking anticipatory bail, Kumar submitted that his name was involved in the case only because of an alleged statement by the caller and there was no allegation that he himself contacted Elaiyaraja. It was submitted that no overt act had been attributed to him and no independent material existed against him.

Kumar argued that in the absence of materials, his arrest and custody would amount to detaining him first and then searching for materials.

Kumar argued that the entire case was a schemed plan by Elaiyaraja to influence the public for the upcoming by-election in the Karur District. He added that he was roped into the case only because he was the brother of an MLA and ex-Minister.

Kumar also assured the court that he was willing to abide by any conditions that may be imposed by the court.

Case Title: RV Ashok Kumar v The State

Case No: Crl OP 17241 of 2026