TN Guv rejects MK Stalin's recommendation over allocating arrested DMK minister's portfolio

The new issue added to the already prevailing tussle between the Tamil Nadu Governor and the ruling DMK.

Speaking to reporters, Higher Education Minister K.Ponmudy, who was part of a high-level meeting chaired by the CM following the Governor's letter rejecting the recommendation, said Stalin had again written to Ravi on the matter.

Earlier, reiterating that V.Senthil Balaji was tortured by the ED due to a political vendetta before his arrest, Stalin said an elected member of the Assembly was treated like a 'terrorist' and wondered whether the country was facing an undeclared emergency.

Coming down hard on the BJP-led Government at the Centre, Stalin, in a video address warned the BJP not to provoke the DMK and its cadres, who have faced MISA and various vindictive acts and staged protests, and that it would not be able to bear the consequences.

Clarifying that he was not opposed to an inquiry against Senthil Balaji if there was a case and a court order, the Chief Minister wondered what was the need to treat the Minister like a terrorist, by locking him in a room.

“He is not an ordinary man who can run away. He is a member elected by the people to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. He is a five-time MLA and a two-time Minister," Stalin said, adding, he fully cooperated with the ED officials when they wanted to interrogate him.

He also promised to give a clear explanation if any documents were seized.

"What was the need to keep him in a room for 18 hours, not being allowed to meet anyone,” he asked.