Chennai, July 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The investigation into an alleged conspiracy to destabilise the Vijay-led government in Tamil Nadu intensified on Sunday, with former Electricity Minister V. Senthil Balaji and his younger brother Ashok Kumar appearing before the Triplicane Police for the second consecutive day of questioning in the MLA poaching case.
The case was registered following a complaint by Uthangarai TRC MLA Dr Ilayaraja, who alleged that a conspiracy was planned under the name of the “Meghalaya Project” to lure 15 legislators away from the ruling TVK and bring down the government.
Based on the complaint submitted to Chennai Police Commissioner Amal Raj, Triplicane Police initiated an investigation into the alleged attempt to engineer defections. Dr Ilayaraja has alleged that he was offered ₹35 crore to switch political allegiance.
Police are investigating whether the alleged operation was part of a larger effort to influence legislators and alter the political situation in the state. So far, 14 people have been arrested in connection with the case.
Senthil Balaji and Ashok Kumar were named as accused during the course of the investigation. The Chennai Principal Sessions Court had earlier granted anticipatory bail to both, directing them to cooperate with the probe and appear before Triplicane Police twice daily to mark their attendance.
Following the court order, the brothers appeared before the police on Saturday and Sunday. Police sources said they were questioned separately by a Special Investigation Team led by Triplicane Deputy Commissioner Jayachandran, along with Additional Deputy Commissioner Kumaragurubaran and Assistant Commissioner Azhagu.
Investigators reportedly questioned them on documents seized during the probe, alleged financial transactions and claims of attempts to influence elected representatives. Officials said the interrogation is aimed at tracing the alleged network behind the MLA poaching attempt.
The police have indicated that the investigation is continuing and further questioning or arrests may follow based on evidence gathered during the probe.
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