Ex-SIB Chief, T. Prabhakar Rao, Finally Appears in Telangana Phone Tapping Probe
Hyderabad, June 9, 2025 – T. Prabhakar Rao, former chief of Telangana’s Special Intelligence Branch (SIB) and prime accused in the high-profile phone tapping case, appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Hyderabad on Monday. His return from the United States, facilitated by a Supreme Court directive, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation into alleged illegal surveillance during the previous BRS regime.
Return After Supreme Court Intervention
Prabhakar Rao arrived at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on Sunday, June 8, following a Supreme Court order granting him protection from arrest until further notice. The court mandated his appearance before the SIT within three days of his return, prompted by the cancellation of his passport and a Red Corner Notice issued by Indian authorities.
Allegations of Illegal Surveillance
The case centers on accusations that Prabhakar Rao, during his tenure as SIB chief under the BRS government, led a team that unlawfully tapped phones of political rivals, dissidents, judges, and journalists. The scandal emerged in March 2024 after the arrest of DSP Praneeth Rao, triggered by an internal complaint exposing the operation.
SIT’s Investigative Focus
The SIT aims to extract critical information from Prabhakar Rao, listed as A1 in the FIR, building on statements from four previously arrested officers: DSP Praneeth Rao, DCP Radha Kishan Rao, Tirupathanna, and Bhujanga Rao. Authorities are probing the extent of the surveillance network and its operational details.
Legal and Procedural Developments
Initially declared an absconder by the Nampally Criminal Court, Prabhakar Rao faced a proclamation order with a deadline of June 20 to appear. The Supreme Court’s restoration of his travel documents enabled his return, ensuring his cooperation with the SIT without immediate risk of arrest.
Case Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Accused | T. Prabhakar Rao (A1) |
| Charges | Illegal phone tapping, data destruction |
| Arrested Co-Accused | Praneeth Rao, Radha Kishan Rao, others |
| Investigation Body | Special Investigation Team (SIT) |
| Court Directive | Supreme Court protection from arrest |
| Appearance Date | June 9, 2025, at Jubilee Hills SIT office |
Public and Political Reactions
The case has fueled significant controversy, with posts on X reflecting polarized sentiments. Some users speculate on political motives behind the timing of Rao’s return, while others demand accountability for the alleged misuse of state resources. The investigation’s outcome is expected to have far-reaching implications.
The SIT’s questioning of Prabhakar Rao is a critical step in unraveling the extent of the alleged surveillance, with authorities poised to release further details as the probe progresses.