What’s Happening with the Telangana Phone Tapping Case? Former SIB Chief Appears Before SIT
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Synopsis
The ongoing investigation into the phone tapping case led by the former chief of the Telangana SIB, T. Prabhakar Rao, raises serious questions about the misuse of state power. As he returns to face the SIT, the implications of his actions extend far beyond personal accountability, touching on the integrity of governmental institutions.
Key Takeaways
- The investigation continues into the alleged illegal surveillance practices under T. Prabhakar Rao's leadership.
- Key figures involved in the case are being questioned, providing crucial testimonies.
- The Supreme Court's intervention has significant implications for the case's progression.
- Allegations of political surveillance during elections are particularly concerning.
- Accountability in government functions is essential to restore public trust.
Hyderabad, June 11 (NationPress) The former head of the Telangana Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB), T. Prabhakar Rao, reappeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the phone tapping scandal on Wednesday.
On June 9, the former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer underwent nearly eight hours of questioning by the SIT at Jubilee Hills Police Station.
Rao, identified as the primary suspect in the case, is being interrogated based on testimonies from suspended police officials D. Praneeth Rao, Bhujanga Rao, and M. Thirupathanna, along with former DCP Radha Kishan Rao, who have been arrested but are currently out on bail.
The SIT is investigating Rao’s alleged involvement in creating and running an unlawful surveillance network, as well as the misuse of state resources during his time as SIB chief while the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) was in power.
Investigators, including West Zone DCP SM Vijay Kumar and Jubilee Hills ACP Venkatagiri, are interrogating him regarding the objectives and operations of the team he formed within the SIB.
Reports indicate that under Rao’s oversight, the phones of political leaders, business figures, celebrities, journalists, civil society members, and even judges were allegedly tapped.
This team purportedly tapped the phones of opposition leaders during the 2023 elections and during the by-elections for the Munugode constituency in 2022.
Additionally, SIT officials are reportedly inquiring about hard disks that were allegedly stolen and destroyed following the government transition in December 2023.
After avoiding questioning since the case was filed at the Punjagutta police station in March 2024, Prabhakar Rao returned to India on June 8 after spending over 15 months in the United States. He appeared before the SIT the following day.
The allegations of phone tapping emerged in March last year after the arrest of Deputy Superintendent of Police Praneeth Rao, following a complaint from his superior, Additional SP, SIB D. Ramesh.
Prabhakar Rao had left for the US just prior to the case being registered against him, leading the SIT to issue notices for his appearance.
His failure to return resulted in his being declared an absconder, with his passport subsequently revoked.
On May 29, the Supreme Court instructed authorities to prepare an emergency travel document, allowing Prabhakar Rao to return.
This directive followed a petition from Prabhakar, contesting the Telangana High Court's dismissal of his anticipatory bail request.
The bench also prohibited police from taking any coercive actions against Rao until further orders.
In accordance with the Supreme Court's direction, he provided assurance that he would return to India promptly upon receiving an emergency travel document and would cooperate with the investigation.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this case with a balanced perspective. The allegations of phone tapping and misuse of power highlight significant concerns about accountability within law enforcement and government entities. The ongoing investigation should be seen as an opportunity for transparency and reform, ensuring that such abuses of power are addressed decisively.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main allegations against T. Prabhakar Rao?
T. Prabhakar Rao is accused of establishing and operating an illegal surveillance network, allegedly tapping phones of various individuals, including political leaders and journalists, during his tenure as chief of the SIB.
How did the investigation into the phone tapping case begin?
The investigation began following the arrest of Deputy Superintendent of Police Praneeth Rao in March last year, prompted by a complaint from his superior regarding the misuse of surveillance tools.
Why was T. Prabhakar Rao declared an absconder?
He was declared an absconder after failing to appear before the SIT for questioning, as he had returned to the US just before the case was registered against him.
What is the role of the Supreme Court in this case?
The Supreme Court has directed authorities to facilitate Rao's return to India by providing an emergency travel document and has prohibited any coercive actions against him until further orders.
What implications does this case have for the Telangana government?
This case raises critical questions about the integrity of law enforcement and the potential misuse of power within the Telangana government, highlighting the need for accountability and reform.
