Can tap phones as part of investigation : DGP

Thiruvananthapuram :  DGP Loknath Behra said on Sunday that investigating officers can tap or intercept phones during their investigation even though strict guidelines have been issued by the Supreme Court on phone tapping.
"Officers not below the rank of Inspector-General of Police can tap phones as per rule 190 in emergency situations as part of their investigation. However, the permission of the home secretary should be taken within three days after tapping the phone. Those who misuse the facility have to face the consequences, "Behera said
The DGP said that he will examine the letter written by Vigilance Chief Jacob Thomas on Sunday itself.
The other day, Jacob Thomas had said that he strongly suspects his official phone call data and email have been compromised. He also lodged a complaint in this regard with DGP Behera. The complaint was handed over to the police chief through an assistant. 
Behra was a member of the committe constituted by Union Home Ministry to decide the criteria for tapping of phones during investigation.

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