Biography
Overview
V. Senthil Balaji (born 21 October 1975) is an Indian politician and former Cabinet Minister in the Government of Tamil Nadu. He currently serves as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Karur constituency and holds the position of Karur District Secretary of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
Over the course of his political career, Mr. Balaji has held several key ministerial roles, including Minister for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise, and Minister for Transport, where he was recognized for his administrative effectiveness and people-centric approach. Known for his grassroots engagement and strong regional leadership, he continues to play a vital role in strengthening the DMK’s organizational structure in western Tamil Nadu while working toward sustainable development in his constituency.
Early Life & Background
Born on October 21, 1975, in Rameswarapatti, Karur District, V. Senthil Balaji emerged from a humble background with a strong commitment to social service. He completed his higher secondary education and entered politics at a young age, driven by a passion to improve the quality of life in rural Tamil Nadu. His people-first approach and consistent field presence have defined his public image throughout his career.
Political Journey
Mr. Senthil Balaji began his career with the AIADMK, winning his first election as MLA from Karur in 2006and retaining the seat in 2011. He was appointed Minister for Transport in 2011, where he led notable reforms in public transportation.
In 2018, he joined the DMK and was appointed District Secretary of Karur, taking on key responsibilities in party building and election strategy. He was elected MLA from Aravakurichi in 2019 (by-election) and later from Karur in 2021, reinforcing his strong public support.
From 2021 to 2023, he served in the Tamil Nadu Cabinet as Minister for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise, during which he oversaw major power procurement efforts and modernization of electricity infrastructure.
Current Roles
- Member of Legislative Assembly – Karur (DMK), 2021 – Present
- District Secretary – Karur (DMK), 2018 – Present
Previous Key Positions
- Minister for Electricity, Prohibition & Excise (DMK), 2021 – 2023
- Minister for Transport (AIADMK), 2011 – 2015
- MLA – Aravakurichi (DMK), 2019 – 2021
- MLA – Aravakurichi (AIADMK), 2016 – 2017
- MLA – Karur (AIADMK), 2006 – 2016
Development Work in Karur
As MLA and DMK District Secretary, Mr. Senthil Balaji has led various development initiatives in Karur, including:
- Expansion of road networks and rural connectivity
- Improved access to drinking water and sanitation
- Upgrades to school and educational facilities
- Modernization of public health centers and medical camps
- Youth skill training and employment schemes
- Women’s welfare and SHG empowerment programs
Leadership Style & Vision
Mr. Senthil Balaji is recognized for his pragmatic and people-focused leadership, staying closely engaged with constituents and ensuring prompt action on local issues. His vision revolves around inclusive development, rural upliftment, and transparent governance.
Public Engagement
Mr. Balaji continues to be highly accessible to the people of Karur, conducting regular field visits, review meetings, and public grievance redressal sessions.
Personal Life
He is married to Mrs. Megala Senthil Balaji, and the couple has one daughter. Despite his active public life, he remains grounded in his community values and committed to the social and economic development of Tamil Nadu.