Prabhakar Rao questioning ends in phone tapping case

The 14-day custodial inquiry of Prabhakar Rao, former SIB chief and a key accused in the phone tapping case, has come to an end. On Friday, he underwent medical tests at a government hospital and later returned home. The SIT has recorded his statement and will include it in the final charge sheet. A detailed report will be submitted to the Supreme Court on January 16, indicating that the case is nearing its final stage.

In the first phase, the SIT questioned Prabhakar Rao from December 12 to 18. However, officials stated that he did not fully cooperate and failed to give clear answers. Following this, the Supreme Court granted permission for another round of custodial inquiry from December 19 to 25. In total, the SIT questioned him for 14 days. Other accused, including Tirupathanna Rao, Bhujanga Rao and Radhakrishna Rao, were also questioned separately and their statements were recorded.

During the inquiry, Prabhakar Rao explained that he met former minister Harish Rao only to provide security, as there was a threat to his life at that time. When questioned about continuing in his role even after retirement, he reportedly said that only then Chief Minister KCR was aware of the reasons. Sources say the SIT may also question former minister Harish Rao and former Chief Minister KCR. Prabhakar Rao’s son, Nishanth Rao, was also questioned. The investigation includes allegations that thousands of phone numbers were tapped and that politicians and business persons were threatened for money. As the government has directed the SIT to complete the probe within a month, efforts are being made to finalize all details before January 16.