TELANGANA: Phone Tapping Case: SIT Intensifies Probe Against Prabhakar Rao
Accelerated Investigation in Telangana
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has ramped up its probe into the Telangana phone-tapping case, with former Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB) chief T. Prabhakar Rao facing rigorous scrutiny. Returning from the United States, Rao underwent an eight-hour interrogation on June 19, 2025, and is scheduled for further questioning today.
Allegations of Illegal Surveillance
The SIT uncovered that approximately 650 individuals, including political leaders, were subjected to unauthorized phone tapping and falsely labeled as Maoist sympathizers. No cases were registered against those monitored, raising questions about the legitimacy of the surveillance.
Procedural Violations Uncovered
As the designated authority for legal interception post-retirement, Rao was authorized to monitor suspicious phones for seven days, requiring review committee approval for extensions. The SIT found evidence of prolonged illegal tapping without such permissions.
Non-Cooperation Prompts Legal Action
Rao’s alleged lack of cooperation has prompted the SIT to plan a counter-affidavit in the Supreme Court on August 4, 2025, seeking to revoke his relief. A petition for custodial interrogation may also be filed in Nampally court.
Evidence of Data Misuse
Investigations revealed Rao’s team purchased numerous pen drives to store and distribute tapped calls to select individuals. The recovery of these drives is deemed critical evidence in the case.
Victim and Accused Statements
The SIT has compiled statements from victims and the accused, with a list of 650 affected individuals prepared. Rao’s responses regarding the impact of the surveillance on victims are under scrutiny.
Broader Implications in Andhra Pradesh
The controversy has spilled into Andhra Pradesh, where YSRCP leader Y.S. Sharmila accused Y.V. Subba Reddy of possessing tapped audio. She demanded his interrogation to uncover the truth.
Upcoming Interrogations
The SIT plans to question former DGP Mahender Reddy and former Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar to deepen the investigation. Statements from other accused, including Praneeth Rao, have provided key leads.
Legal and Political Ramifications
The case underscores significant breaches of privacy and misuse of state resources, with potential legal consequences for high-ranking officials. The SIT’s aggressive approach signals a commitment to accountability.
Public and Political Discourse
The phone tapping scandal has sparked widespread debate, highlighting the need for stringent oversight of surveillance practices. The outcome of the SIT’s actions may reshape public trust in governance.