The political landscape in Hyderabad witnessed a significant development on Thursday as the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the alleged phone tapping incidents during the previous Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government, summoned the party's working president, KT Rama Rao (KTR), for questioning. The notice directs him to appear at the Jubilee Hills police station from 11 am on Friday.
Notice Issued Under CrPC Section 160
In the notice issued under Section 160 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), the SIT stated that it believes KTR is acquainted with the facts and circumstances surrounding the phone tapping case. The notice explicitly mentioned, "During the course of investigation, it came to the notice of the IO that your personal examination is necessary for the purpose of investigation. You are hereby directed to appear in person before the IO." This wording mirrors the notice previously served on former minister and Siddipet MLA T Harish Rao, who was also questioned by the SIT.
Political Stir and Family Connections
The summons has triggered a stir in political circles, with KTR becoming the second member of BRS president and former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao's (KCR) family to be called for questioning. This move underscores the intensifying nature of the investigation, which is being closely monitored across Telangana.
SIT's Decision Based on Probe Findings
The nine-member SIT, headed by Hyderabad police commissioner VC Sajjanar, decided to summon KTR based on information and statements gathered during the ongoing probe. Sources indicate that the SIT is also preparing to question KCR in the near future, suggesting that the investigation is expanding to include top political figures.
Accusations and Political Backlash
Both Harish Rao and KTR have accused the police of overstepping their bounds and have issued warnings, reminding authorities that the BRS aims to return to power in the coming years. Despite these accusations, no political leader has been formally listed as an accused in the case so far.
Background of the Phone Tapping Case
The matter first came to light following the arrest of former Special Intelligence Bureau (SIB) deputy superintendent of police D Praneeth Rao on March 13, 2024. A case was registered at the Panjagutta police station on March 10, 2024, based on a complaint filed by an additional superintendent of police in the SIB. The complaint alleged that certain intelligence officials from the previous BRS administration destroyed electronic equipment soon after the party lost the December 2023 assembly elections.
Details from the Chargesheet
According to the first chargesheet filed by investigators, a special operations team led by Praneeth Rao was allegedly formed to carry out illegal surveillance on various individuals, including:
- Then opposition leaders
- Businessmen
- Journalists
- Other prominent figures
Police have named six individuals as accused in the case:
- Former SIB chief T Prabhakar Rao
- D Praneeth Rao
- Additional SPs Thirupathanna and N Bhujanga Rao
- Former deputy commissioner of police Radha Kishan Rao
- A Sravan Kumar, a television channel managing director
Notably, Prabhakar Rao was questioned by the SIT for two weeks after the Supreme Court directed him to surrender, and he was subsequently released on December 26 last year.
Implications and Ongoing Developments
This case continues to unfold, with the SIT's actions indicating a thorough examination of the alleged phone tapping activities. The summons to KTR marks a pivotal moment, potentially leading to further revelations and political ramifications in Hyderabad and beyond.
