Court Issues Ultimatum to Former SIB Chief in Phone-Tapping Case

Court Issues Ultimatum to Former SIB Chief in Phone-Tapping Case

Court’s Directive to T. Prabhakar Rao

A Hyderabad metropolitan magistrate court has issued a critical directive to T. Prabhakar Rao, former chief of the Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB), ordering him to appear by June 20, 2025, in connection with the high-profile Telangana phone tapping case. Failure to comply will result in his designation as a proclaimed offender, enabling legal proceedings in his absence.

Background of the Case

The case, which has stirred significant controversy, involves allegations of illegal phone tapping targeting political figures, with Rao identified as the primary accused. Hyderabad police filed petitions in January 2025 to initiate the proclaimed offender process against Rao and co-accused A. Shravan Kumar, alleging both fled abroad to evade arrest.

Rao’s Non-Compliance

Despite earlier notices, Rao remains at large, prompting the court to grant police permission to proceed with the proclamation process. If Rao does not appear by the specified deadline, the court may conduct a trial in absentia after 90 days from the charges’ filing.

Shravan Kumar’s Legal Maneuvers

Co-accused Shravan Kumar has agreed to appear before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) under conditions preventing his arrest, following his appeal to the Supreme Court. This development contrasts with Rao’s continued absence, intensifying scrutiny on the case.

Additional Charges Against Shravan Kumar

Shravan Kumar faces a separate fraud case involving the alleged misappropriation of over ₹6.58 crore from Akhand Infratech India Private Limited. The Central Crime Station (CCS) police have sought seven days of custody for interrogation, with the court reserving its orders on this petition.

Police Actions and International Efforts

Telangana police are pursuing Rao’s deportation from the United States, where he reportedly fled in March 2024 after an FIR was registered. An Interpol Red Corner Notice has been issued, and Rao’s passport has been revoked to facilitate his return for trial.

Public and Political Reactions

The case has drawn significant attention, with posts on X reflecting public outrage over the alleged misuse of surveillance powers. Political parties, including the Indian National Congress, have criticized the handling of the case, alleging attempts to shield key figures.

Broader Implications

The phone-tapping scandal raises concerns about privacy violations and the misuse of state machinery, impacting public trust in governance. The court’s ultimatum underscores the urgency of addressing these allegations transparently.

Legal Proceedings Timeline

Ongoing Investigations

The SIT continues to probe the extent of the phone-tapping operations, with evidence suggesting the destruction of critical data by the accused. The case’s outcome may set a precedent for handling similar allegations of surveillance abuse in India.