Hyderabad: In a scathing critique of the ongoing investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the alleged phone tapping in Telangana, former minister Harish Rao has dismissed the SIT as nothing more than a ‘Chief Minister Instruction Team’ (CIT). His remarks come as the SIT continues its inquiry at the residence of former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao in Nandhinagar.
Rao took to social media to express his discontent, claiming that the investigation masquerading as an SIT probe is merely a politically motivated attempt to target opposition leaders. He stated, “There is no law behind the notices being issued; it is merely political revenge fueled by the arrogance of Revanth Reddy.” Rao accused the SIT of openly violating the Supreme Court’s clear guidelines and failing to adhere to any legal procedures in issuing notices.
In his tweet, he questioned the whereabouts of Chief Minister KCR amid the unfolding events, suggesting that the intelligence apparatus in place is ineffective if notices are being affixed to the walls of Nandhinagar. “Is this the respect Congress offers to a chief minister who has governed the state for a decade?” he asked, highlighting the perceived indignity in the treatment of a democratically elected opposition leader.
The former minister further criticized the current government’s inability to address public issues and fulfill promises, alleging that the Congress party’s sole agenda has become vendetta politics. “Issuing notices under the guise of an SIT is a pathetic attempt to distract from the growing public discontent and a series of scandals,” he added, indicating that this approach reflects a political bankruptcy on the part of Revanth Reddy.
Rao’s comments underscored a larger concern regarding the misuse of state power for political gain, stating that the SIT does not operate independently but rather follows orders from the Chief Minister’s office. “The SIT stands for nothing but a violation of the law and an affront to the constitution,” he asserted.
Despite the ongoing scrutiny, KCR is reportedly cooperating with the investigation. However, Rao raised alarms about the excessive police presence during the probe, alleging that thousands of police officers have been deployed from Gajwel to Hyderabad to intimidate party leaders and workers. He warned that the BRS will not remain passive in the face of such intimidation and harassment.
Rao concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of questioning authority in a democracy, saying, “While opposition leaders should be allowed to speak, under Congress rule, questioning leads to notices and arrests—this is their new model of democracy.” He firmly reiterated that the Congress party’s fear of KCR, who has made significant contributions to the state, is evident through their aggressive targeting of opposition leaders. “They cannot erase history or the legacy of KCR from the hearts of the people,” he stated.
