'Senthil Balaji Not Receiving Special Facilities In Prison', Says Law Minister S Regupathy Days After Allegations

Law Minister S Regupathy today (25 July) dismissed allegations of minister Senthil Balaji being provided special treatment in prison after rumours emerged that he was allowed outside food and provided with air conditioned facilities.

Regupathy said that prison doctors were monitoring his health, and the food provided to him was according to the norms for 'A-class prisoners.'

Balaji is currently lodged at the Puzhal Prison in Chennai, after being discharged from the Kauvery Hospital, where he had undergone bypass surgery. He is under judicial custody till 26 July.

Political commentator Savukku Shankar had recently written on Twitter, "Sources : Puzhal Prison Hospital almost empty to provide privacy to VVIP Prisoner Senthil Balaji.

"Senthil Balaji everyday provided with sweets like Carrot Halwa, Bread Halwa and Kesari. On Sunday, yesterday, Senthil Balaji was provided with Pineapple Kesari.

"VSB chooses his food from a menu exclusively provided to him by prison officials. Krishnaraj, Supdt. Of Prisons, everyday visits VSB and attends to him.

"Yesterday, Krishnaraj visited VSB twice and had a lengthy discussion. Additional Supdt. Of Prisons Dharmaraj spends most of his time with VSB.

"Senthil Balaji’s hospital cell is provided with a 55 inch Panasonic LED TV with a set top box.

"Normally the strength of Puzhal Prison Hospital used to be 35 to 40 as in patients. Now, only 14 in patients in Puzhal prison hospital. Doctors and prison officials advise prisoners to avoid coming to hospital to ensure privacy to VSB.

"The Hospital B Cell which used to house 12 to 15 inpatients is now kept empty for VSB. Entire prison administration is under the beck and call of VSB. Minister Raghupathy personally issued instructions to take care of VSB inside prison. @CMOTamilnadu"

Also Read: Madras High Court Closes Senthil Balaji Habeas Corpus Plea; Matter To Be Heard By Supreme Court On 26 July