In a significant development in the ongoing phone tapping investigation, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) interrogated Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K T Rama Rao for approximately seven hours on Friday. The questioning took place under tight security arrangements at the Jubilee Hills police station in Hyderabad.
Focus on Alleged Misuse of Police Apparatus
The interrogation centered on serious allegations that key police departments were allegedly exploited for political objectives during the BRS administration. Investigators specifically examined claims that the Hyderabad police commissioner's task force and the Special Intelligence Bureau—a crucial component of the state's intelligence framework—were utilized to conduct political operations that benefited the BRS party.
As the party's working president during the period under scrutiny, KTR faced detailed inquiries about organizational decisions and the purported involvement of these law enforcement agencies in partisan activities.
Multiple Electoral Incidents Under Scanner
The SIT investigators delved into allegations of targeted cash seizures executed by police personnel during the BRS tenure. Particular attention was given to operations during critical bypolls in Dubbak, Munugode, and Huzurabad constituencies, as well as during the 2023 state assembly elections.
Another contentious matter discussed during the marathon session involved a complaint filed by a local businessman. The complainant alleged that officials had pressured and intimidated him into purchasing electoral bonds to support the BRS financially.
Surveillance of Opposition Figures
The questioning also addressed allegations of systematic surveillance directed against opposition leaders during the previous BRS government. Investigators sought to determine the extent and nature of such monitoring activities and whether they crossed legal boundaries.
According to sources familiar with the proceedings, KTR categorically denied all allegations during the probe. He maintained publicly that no illegal activities had occurred and that any surveillance conducted was strictly in compliance with the Indian Telegraph Act and served legitimate state interests.
Parallel Investigations and Official Statements
In related developments, former deputy commissioner of police (task force) P Radha Kishan Rao—an accused in the same case—was summoned for questioning on Thursday. Official sources confirmed that both individuals were examined separately by the investigation team.
Following the conclusion of KTR's interrogation, Hyderabad Police Commissioner and SIT in-charge V C Sajjanar addressed the media. He stated, "Relevant aspects of the case were elicited and are being analyzed with the evidence on record."
Sajjanar revealed that KTR had been instructed not to contact or attempt to influence any witnesses connected to the investigation. The BRS leader was also informed that he might be summoned again if the SIT required further clarification.
Caution Against Speculation
The police commissioner cautioned against premature speculation regarding the probe, noting that misleading narratives were circulating about the investigation. He reiterated that the SIT was conducting its work "strictly in accordance with law, fairly and professionally."
Heightened Security and Political Support
Earlier on Friday, KTR departed from his residence accompanied by senior party leaders, including former minister and Siddipet MLA T Harish Rao. The group made a brief stop at the BRS headquarters before proceeding to the police station for questioning.
Authorities implemented temporary traffic restrictions along the route as a precautionary measure. The police station premises and surrounding areas were heavily barricaded, with additional forces deployed to maintain order. Security arrangements included Vajra vehicles and DCM vans to prevent any untoward incidents during the high-profile interrogation.
Pre-Questioning Statements
In the days leading up to the SIT session, KTR had consistently maintained that no illegal phone tapping occurred during the BRS government's tenure. He asserted that any authorized interceptions were conducted within the legal framework established by the Indian Telegraph Act and were justified by state security concerns.
The extended questioning session marks a crucial phase in the SIT's investigation into allegations of institutional misuse for political advantage. As the probe continues to unfold, it remains a focal point of political and legal attention in Telangana.
