Did Telangana Former SIB Chief T. Prabhakar Rao Return from the US?
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Synopsis
The return of T. Prabhakar Rao, the former SIB chief, from the US marks a pivotal moment in the phone tapping investigation in Telangana. As he prepares to face the SIT, the implications for political accountability and justice are significant. Stay tuned for developments in this high-profile case.
Key Takeaways
- T. Prabhakar Rao's return marks a crucial phase in the phone tapping investigation.
- The SIT aims to address allegations of political surveillance.
- The Supreme Court's involvement underscores the seriousness of the case.
- The legal ramifications could impact several high-profile individuals.
- A transparent investigation is vital for public trust.
Hyderabad, June 8 (NationPress) The former chief of the Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB) in Telangana, T. Prabhakar Rao, who is a primary suspect in the ongoing phone tapping scandal, has made his return from the United States this past Sunday.
He is expected to appear before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Monday as per his commitment to the Supreme Court.
This retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer has been in the US for the last 14 months, returning to India as mandated by the apex court.
Recently, Rao provided a written commitment to the Supreme Court that he would return to India promptly after receiving emergency travel documents and would fully cooperate with the investigation.
The SIT anticipates significant developments in the investigation concerning the alleged unauthorized tapping of phones belonging to politicians, business figures, journalists, and even judges during the previous administration of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).
On May 29, the Supreme Court instructed authorities to return Rao's passport to facilitate his return to India.
Additionally, the court mandated that Rao submit an affidavit confirming that he would return to India within three days of receiving the passport or travel document.
A bench led by Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma issued this order following Rao's petition challenging the Telangana High Court's dismissal of his anticipatory bail request.
The court also instructed the police to refrain from taking any coercive actions against him until further notice.
Rao's attorney informed the court that he had to seek special permission to return to India.
It was noted that he traveled to the US shortly after the First Information Report (FIR) was filed against him. Subsequently, he was declared an absconder, and his passport was revoked. His counsel contended that the current government in Telangana has been pursuing him aggressively, and a red-corner notice was issued against him.
Last month, the Nampally criminal court in Hyderabad issued orders proclaiming Rao for avoiding legal proceedings for over a year.
During his tenure as the head of the SIB while the BRS was in power, Rao was labeled an absconder by the SIT investigating the phone tapping case.
He allegedly formed a team within the SIB composed of his trusted associates, including Praneeth Rao, to surveil rival political leaders, their families, dissenters within the ruling party, business figures, journalists, and judges.
The claims against the BRS-led government came to light in March of the previous year following the arrest of Deputy Superintendent of Police Praneeth Rao, which stemmed from a complaint filed by his superior, Additional SP D. Ramesh, with the SIB.
Thus far, the police have identified six suspects in the case: Praneeth Rao, Additional SPs Thirupathanna and Bhujanga Rao, along with former DCP P. Radha Kishan Rao.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the implications of T. Prabhakar Rao's return on the ongoing phone tapping investigation. This case raises essential questions about accountability in governance and the protection of individual rights. A transparent investigation is paramount for restoring public trust and upholding justice in Telangana.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is T. Prabhakar Rao?
T. Prabhakar Rao is the former chief of the Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB) in Telangana and a key suspect in a phone tapping scandal.
What is the phone tapping case about?
The phone tapping case involves allegations of unauthorized surveillance of politicians, businessmen, journalists, and judges under the previous government of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).
Why was Rao in the United States?
Rao was in the US for 14 months after being declared an absconder following the registration of an FIR against him.
What actions did the Supreme Court take regarding Rao?
The Supreme Court ordered the return of Rao's passport to facilitate his return to India and mandated that he cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
What could be the consequences of Rao's return?
Rao's return could lead to significant developments in the phone tapping investigation and may result in legal actions against him and others involved.
