Harish Rao Questions Sajjanar’s Remarks on Phone Tapping Case, Raises Bias Concerns
Harish Rao has criticised SIT chief VC Sajjanar for calling the phone tapping case illegal, saying only courts can decide legality and warning against bias in the investigation.
Hyderabad: Former minister and BRS Legislature Party Deputy Floor Leader Harish Rao has expressed strong dissent over remarks made by Hyderabad Police Commissioner and SIT chief V. C. Sajjanar regarding the alleged phone tapping case.
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Harish Rao objected to Sajjanar referring to the matter as “illegal,” stating that such a characterisation has no legal validity until a competent court delivers a verdict.
‘Police Cannot Prejudge an Ongoing Probe’
In a statement issued on Monday, Harish Rao said it was deeply disturbing for the head of an investigating agency to use language that presumes the outcome of an ongoing investigation.
He emphasised that in a constitutional democracy, no allegation can be treated as an offence unless established by a court of law.
“Police officers are investigators, not judges,” Harish Rao said, adding that the role of the police is strictly limited to conducting an impartial investigation.
Legal Framework Must Decide Legality
Harish Rao explained that whether phone interception is legal or illegal depends entirely on strict compliance with:
- Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act
- Provisions of the Information Technology Act
- Safeguards laid down by the Supreme Court in PUCL vs Union of India
He said any violation or deviation can be determined only through judicial scrutiny, not through official police statements.
Question Over Ignoring KCR’s Status
The BRS leader also raised a question that, according to him, is being asked by the people of Telangana. He questioned why the SIT chief repeatedly avoids recognising K. Chandrasekhar Rao as the Leader of the Opposition.
Harish Rao said such conduct raises serious concerns about fairness and neutrality.
Warning Against Preconceived Notions
By using the phrase “illegal phone tapping” in official communication, Harish Rao alleged that the SIT chief has displayed a preconceived notion about the outcome of the investigation.
He said this conduct is unbecoming of a senior IPS officer and goes against the principles of neutrality, restraint, and impartiality required under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968.
Fear of Bias in a Politically Sensitive Case
Harish Rao warned that drawing premature conclusions in a politically sensitive case—especially one involving a former Chief Minister—creates a reasonable apprehension of bias and political motivation in the investigation.
He reiterated that only the judiciary has the authority to decide the legality of the alleged phone tapping and urged investigating agencies to maintain institutional discipline.
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