Telangana Phone-Tapping Case: Retired DGP, Serving DG May Become Key Witnesses

The Telangana Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the alleged phone-tapping case, is reportedly preparing to file a supplementary chargesheet and is considering including a retired DGP and another serving DG-level officer as witnesses. Their testimonies are believed to be potentially crucial during the trial, particularly in establishing how the alleged interception operations were authorised and carried out. A supplementary chargesheet is expected to be filed by the end of August, according to recent reports.

The two senior officers had held key positions during the previous government. The SIT is reportedly examining whether they failed to prevent alleged violations surrounding the designation of former SIB chief T. Prabhakar Rao as the designated authority for lawful interception. The investigation is also understood to be examining the alleged roles of three senior BRS leaders. Investigators reportedly believe that the statements of the two officers could be important in establishing the alleged chain of command and strengthening the prosecution's case. Prabhakar Rao, the former SIB chief and a key accused, has previously figured prominently in the investigation; the Supreme Court had granted him anticipatory bail as the probe progressed.