NHRC Directs Telangana DGP to Submit Report on Harish Rao Black Magic Row
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognisance of a complaint regarding the failure of police to register an FIR over public allegations of “black magic” and “occult rituals” made against Siddipet MLA and BRS Deputy Floor Leader T Harish Rao in Hyderabad. Taking up the matter on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, the commission directed the Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) to submit an Action Taken Report in English within four weeks.
The complaint was formally lodged before the rights panel on August 22, 2026, by Telangana High Court advocate and social activist Karupothula Revanth, acting under the authorisation of Harish Rao.
According to the complaint, persons holding high public offices, including the Chief Minister and a Government Whip, have repeatedly made public statements since July 31, 2026, alleging that Harish Rao performed tantric and occult rituals at temples. The political figures publicly claimed the rituals were carried out to stop rains and cause drought conditions.
The complaint underscored that no temple records, priest statements, receipts, or any other corroborating evidence supporting these allegations have been made public by those leveling the claims.
Before approaching the NHRC, complaints were lodged at the Osmania University and Vanasthalipuram police stations on August 4. Following inaction by local stations, a representation was submitted to the DGP’s office on August 17. The petition stated that no FIR was registered by the police and no official reasons were communicated explaining the failure to register the case.
The petition expressed concern that public remarks by individuals occupying high constitutional and political offices linking rainfall or drought to occult practices could promote superstition among the public. It further warned that such claims could encourage witchcraft accusations in rural areas, potentially triggering attacks against women, widows, elderly persons, and members of SC and ST communities.
