In Hyderabad, Excise and Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao addressed the media at Praja Bhavan on Saturday, providing a detailed update on the ongoing phone-tapping case. He emphasized that the investigation is being conducted in a strictly democratic and impartial manner, with a firm commitment to punishing those found guilty. Rao described phone tapping as a heinous act and refuted allegations that the probe is a political vendetta, stressing the necessity of uncovering the perpetrators and masterminds behind such violations.
Democratic Process and Legal Upholding
Minister Jupally questioned whether the incumbent Congress government should ignore alleged irregularities or violations committed by the previous KCR-led BRS government. He argued that conducting an investigation is essential to uphold the law and ensure justice. According to him, the current probe is proceeding impartially, in contrast to past practices where, he alleged, individuals like Prof M Kodandaram were arrested from their homes at midnight during the BRS regime.
Evidence and Witness Statements
Jupally highlighted several instances supporting the need for the investigation. He mentioned that one Prakash had already stated his phone was tapped, and former officials such as IPS officer RS Praveen Kumar, IAS officer Akunuri Murali, and former governor Tamilisai Soundararajan have also spoken about phone tapping. Additionally, he claimed there is video evidence showing Harish Rao advising someone not to speak over the phone due to tapping concerns.
Summons and Political Reactions
The minister clarified that KTR was issued notices under Section 160 of the CrPC and summoned for questioning as a witness, not as a criminal or accused. He explained that the police called KTR solely to gather information, and the investigation is being conducted strictly as per legal procedures. Jupally accused KTR and Harish Rao of making a fuss over the summons purely to derive political mileage, noting that several leaders from various political affiliations have already appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT).
Questions on BRS Government's Actions
Jupally raised pointed questions about the previous BRS government's handling of the issue. He asked why, if phone tapping had not occurred during their tenure, SIB chief Prabhakar Rao went to the US and was unavailable for questioning, only returning after the Supreme Court's intervention. This, he suggested, indicates potential wrongdoing that warrants thorough scrutiny.
Overall, Minister Jupally Krishna Rao reaffirmed the government's dedication to a transparent and lawful investigation, aiming to bring the truth to light and ensure accountability in the phone-tapping case.
