The Supreme Court of India raised sharp questions on Friday, directly challenging the Telangana government's intentions in a high-profile phone-tapping case. The court asked state authorities whether they truly wanted to keep former Special Intelligence Bureau chief T Prabhakar Rao imprisoned until he completely broke down.
Court's Stern Warning to the State
During the hearing, a bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan expressed clear frustration with the state's approach. They indicated a strong inclination to make absolute their previous order granting interim bail to the former IPS officer. The justices did not mince words when addressing the state's legal team.
"We have a feeling that you want him to be in jail till he breaks down," the bench stated firmly. "Now, we will not let you use our order beyond what it was meant for."
Legal Battle Over Anticipatory Bail
The Supreme Court was hearing an anticipatory bail application filed by Rao, who faces serious accusations in the phone-tapping investigation. Senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, representing Telangana, strongly opposed making the interim bail permanent. He urged the court to consider important legal questions raised by the state government.
Luthra specifically questioned whether a person declared an absconder and reportedly residing overseas could even legally apply for anticipatory bail in the first place. This argument formed a central part of the state's opposition to Rao's bail request.
Practical Solutions for Investigation
The top court provided clear guidance about how investigations could proceed even with bail in place. The bench emphasized that state police authorities remained free to call Rao for questioning and interrogation at any time while he enjoyed anticipatory bail protection.
The court explained its earlier decision on December 11, when it ordered Rao's surrender and custody. This move was described as an "interim Article 142" measure specifically designed to assist the ongoing investigation process.
Timeline and Next Steps
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing in this significant case for March 10. Until that date, the bench has extended the interim protection granted to former SIB chief T Prabhakar Rao.
This development follows previous court actions in the case. On December 19 of last year, the Supreme Court had extended Rao's police custody until December 25. The current proceedings represent the latest chapter in this ongoing legal battle between state authorities and the accused former intelligence chief.
The case continues to attract national attention as it involves serious allegations of phone-tapping and raises important questions about legal procedures, state power, and individual rights within India's justice system.
