Biography
Overview
V. Senthil Balaji (born 21 October 1975) is a seasoned Indian politician and former Cabinet Minister in the Government of Tamil Nadu. He currently serves as the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing the Karur constituency and holds the position of Karur District Secretary of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
Throughout his political journey, Mr. Balaji has held several significant ministerial portfolios, including Minister for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise, and Minister for Transport. He is widely recognized for his administrative acumen, reform-driven leadership, and unwavering commitment to a people-first governance model. Renowned for his grassroots connect and dynamic regional leadership, he continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening the DMK’s organizational presence in western Tamil Nadu while advancing sustainable development initiatives within his constituency.
Early Life & Background
Born on October 21, 1975, in Rameswarapatti, Karur District, V. Senthil Balaji rose from humble beginnings, guided by a deep-rooted commitment to public service. After completing his higher secondary education, he entered politics at a young age, driven by a resolute passion to uplift rural communities and improve the quality of life across Tamil Nadu. His people-first approach, tireless grassroots engagement, and unwavering accessibility have consistently shaped his public image and earned him widespread respect among constituents.
Political Journey
Mr. Senthil Balaji began his political journey with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), securing his first victory as Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Karur in 2006 and successfully retaining the seat in 2011. He was appointed as the Minister for Transport in 2011, where he spearheaded significant reforms to enhance public transportation services across Tamil Nadu.
In 2018, he joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and was entrusted with the role of District Secretary for Karur, playing a vital role in grassroots mobilization, party strengthening, and electoral strategy. His popularity was reaffirmed with his election as MLA from Aravakurichi in the 2019 by-election, followed by a decisive win from Karur in the 2021 Assembly elections.
From 2021 to 2023, Mr. Balaji served as the Minister for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise in the Tamil Nadu Cabinet. During his tenure, he led key initiatives in power procurement and infrastructure modernization, contributing significantly to strengthening the state’s energy sector.
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 widely recognized for his pragmatic, people-centric leadership style, maintaining close engagement with his constituents and ensuring swift, effective action on local concerns. His leadership vision is anchored in inclusive development, rural empowerment, and a steadfast commitment to transparent and accountable governance.
Public Engagement
Mr. Balaji remains highly accessible to the people of Karur, consistently engaging with the public through regular field visits, constituency review meetings, and dedicated grievance redressal sessions—demonstrating his unwavering commitment to transparent governance and grassroots development.
Personal Life
He is married to Mrs. Megala Senthil Balaji, and the couple is blessed with one daughter. A devoted family man and seasoned public servant, he remains firmly connected to the grassroots, upholding the values of his community while tirelessly working toward the social justice and economic advancement of Tamil Nadu.