The investigation into the alleged phone tapping case that has stirred political controversy in Telangana gathered pace on Saturday, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) recording the statements of Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao and Congress MP Anil Kumar Yadav.

According to sources, police informed Mr. Tummala about his phone being tapped before the Assembly elections in 2023 and they showed the technical evidence about the phone being tapped. They recorded the statement on why his phone could be tapped and whether he had a doubt.

Similarly, SIT officials also presented technical evidence to Rajya Sabha member Anil Kumar Yadav that his phone was intercepted during the tenure of the previous government and recorded his statement regarding the matter. Police officials also shared details of the dates and timings when the alleged phone tapping took place.

Mr. Anil Yadav later told reporters that the SIT has also confirmed that the phone of his father and former MP Anjan Kumar Yadav was also under surveillance. Considering his age and health condition, officials have decided to visit his residence to record his statement instead of summoning him to the SIT office.

He said the investigators had shown him key evidence related to the alleged interception of his phone conversations. “The masterminds as well as those who executed the surveillance should be identified and punished according to law,” Mr. Yadav said.