Why Was Former T'gana Minister Harish Rao Questioned for Seven Hours in the Phone-Tapping Case?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant development, former Telangana Minister T. Harish Rao underwent a rigorous seven-hour questioning by the SIT regarding a phone-tapping case. With rising tensions and allegations of political vendetta, this interrogation has captured the attention of the public. What does this mean for the political landscape in Telangana?
Key Takeaways
- Harish Rao questioned for seven hours by SIT.
- Accusations of phone-tapping under previous administration.
- Claims of political vendetta and corruption exposure.
- Calls for investigation into coal tender scams.
- Demands questioning of former police officials.
Hyderabad, Jan 20 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the phone-tapping scandal interrogated Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and ex-Telangana Minister T. Harish Rao for a lengthy seven hours on Tuesday, as reported by officials.
The BRS leader exited the Jubilee Hills Police Station later that evening.
In compliance with the notice from the SIT, Harish Rao appeared before the investigators at 11 a.m.
As the afternoon progressed, tensions escalated outside the police station due to a significant gathering of BRS supporters showing their backing.
This marked the first instance where a senior BRS leader faced questioning by the SIT regarding the alleged interception of phones belonging to political rivals, businesspeople, journalists, and even judges during the previous BRS administration.
After the questioning, Harish Rao addressed the media at the BRS headquarters in Telangana Bhavan, claiming that the summons was a retaliatory act for exposing corruption involving Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy's brother-in-law, S. Srujan Reddy.
The former Minister mentioned that he posed more inquiries to the SIT officials than they directed at him.
He rejected the accusations of phone-tapping, asserting he was never the Home Minister.
Harish Rao insisted that former Director General of Police (DGP) Mahender Reddy and the then Intelligence Chief Shivadhar Reddy should also be summoned for questioning.
He expressed concern over the possibility of the state government leaking details of his SIT questioning to the media.
The BRS leader challenged the government to release the full video of his interrogation.
He reiterated that the notice was an attempt to distract the public from internal conflicts among Ministers over corruption profits.
Harish Rao accused Chief Minister Revanth Reddy of trying to frame him in a case.
Respecting the law, he affirmed his willingness to return for further questioning if required.
He also alleged a scandal involving coal tenders from the public sector company Singareni Collieries, calling for an investigation by a sitting judge.
Harish Rao claimed that Revanth Reddy's brother-in-law is implicated in a scam worth thousands of crores.
Point of View
The questioning of T. Harish Rao by the SIT represents a critical moment in Telangana politics. It raises questions about the integrity of political leaders and the measures taken to address corruption. The ongoing developments warrant close monitoring as they could impact political dynamics significantly.
NationPress
20/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for Harish Rao's questioning?
Harish Rao was questioned by the SIT in relation to allegations of phone-tapping of political opponents, businessmen, journalists, and judges under the previous BRS administration.
How long did the questioning last?
The questioning lasted for seven hours.
What did Harish Rao say about the allegations?
Harish Rao denied any wrongdoing, stating he was not the Home Minister and accused the government of using the situation to distract from internal corruption issues.
What challenge did Harish Rao pose to the government?
He challenged the state government to release the full video of his questioning.
What further actions does Harish Rao call for?
He demands that former police officials be questioned and has called for a probe into alleged scams involving coal tenders.
