Won’t give my phone for investigation : KTR to ACB

Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) has declined to hand over his mobile phone and personal electronic devices to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), citing constitutional rights and Supreme Court precedents.

In a written reply to the ACB notice, KTR argued that the directive violates his fundamental right to privacy and lacks legal clarity.

'Cooperated fully during day-long ACB probe'

KTR, in his letter, detailed that he had appeared before the ACB on June 16 at 10 am in response to an earlier notice dated June 13. He stated that he remained with the investigating team until 5 pm, responded to all questions, and extended full cooperation throughout the inquiry regarding the Formula E race case.

Notice lacks justification for seizing devices

After the interrogation, the ACB issued a second notice under Section 94 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), seeking submission of KTR’s mobile phone (used between November 2021 and December 2023) along with a laptop, tablet, and iPad.

KTR raised objections, stating that the notice did not specify the purpose for seizing these devices or how they were relevant to the investigation. He emphasised that all official records related to the Formula E case are already with the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department, which he headed during the relevant period.

Constitutional rights and legal safeguards

In his response, KTR strongly objected to the demand, arguing that seizing personal electronic devices without clear grounds amounts to a violation of privacy and protection against self-incrimination as guaranteed under the Constitution.

He cited rulings from the Supreme Court, which have established strict protocols regarding the handling of digital evidence. KTR pointed out a specific case in which the court instructed the Enforcement Directorate not to access or copy data from a petitioner’s mobile phone, underlining the importance of consent and legal due process.

KTR says old device is no longer in possession

KTR clarified that he replaced his mobile phone in early 2024 and no longer possesses the one used during the period now under scrutiny. He also stated that he had not used any other electronic device relevant to the case and reiterated that all actions taken were in his capacity as a public official.