CHENNAI: The Madras High Court rejected a bail plea of Tamil Nadu Power Minister Senthil Balaji, who was arrested by the ED for allegedly being involved in a cash-for-job case. The court pointed out that the petition was ineffective as Balaji had already been remanded in judicial custody.

Meanwhile, Senthil Balaji's portfolios were removed. The power department was handed over to Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu and the excise department to Housing Minister Muthusamy. Balaji was arrested on Wednesday night.

After hours of interrogation, the Enforcement Directorate arrested the minister. Later, he was admitted to the hospital after experiencing chest pain. Chief Minister MK Stalin visited Balaji at the hospital.