Phone-tapping case: Nampally Court restrains ex-SIB chief Prabhakar Rao from leaving India

Hyderabad: Nampally Metropolitan Magistrate Court has directed former SIB chief T Prabhakar Rao not to leave the country, as proceedings continue against him in the high-profile phone-tapping case.

The directive was issued after Prabhakar Rao appeared before the court amid attempts by the Telangana police to have him declared a proclaimed offender.

Court questions delay in appearance

During the hearing, the magistrate questioned Prabhakar Rao’s prolonged absence and failure to respond to non-bailable warrants issued against him. The court also raised the possibility of taking him into custody for non-compliance.

In response, Prabhakar Rao’s counsel stated that the Supreme Court had granted him protection from coercive action and assured the court that the former intelligence chief was cooperating with the investigation.

Rs 2 Lakh bond ordered

While taking note of the Supreme Court’s order, the magistrate ordered Prabhakar Rao to submit a security bond of Rs 2 lakh and barred him from travelling abroad without permission. These measures were put in place to ensure his continued presence during the legal process.

Proclaimed offender proceedings

The Telangana police had earlier sought the court’s approval to declare Prabhakar Rao a proclaimed offender due to his failure to appear despite multiple summonses.

A proclamation was issued, with the court directing him to appear by June 20. His appearance on Thursday averted further action under that order.

Prabhakar Rao’s involvement in the alleged illegal surveillance operation during the previous BRS regime has become one of the central points in the politically sensitive phone-tapping case.