NHRC steps in on black magic allegations targeting Harish Rao

The NHRC has taken cognisance of a complaint regarding the failure to register an FIR over public allegations of “black magic” against Siddipet MLA T Harish Rao.

Hyderabad: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognisance of a complaint regarding the failure to register an FIR over public allegations of “black magic” and “occult rituals” against Siddipet MLA and BRS Deputy Floor Leader T Harish Rao.

The complaint was filed before the NHRC by Telangana High Court advocate and social activist Karupothula Revanth, with the authorisation of Harish Rao. The Commission has directed the Director General of Police (DGP), Telangana, to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) in English within four weeks. The direction was issued by the Commission on Wednesday.

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Advocate Karupothula Revanth filed the complaint on August 22.

According to the complaint, since July 31, 2026, persons holding high public offices, including the Chief Minister and a Government Whip, have repeatedly made public allegations that Harish Rao had performed tantric or occult rituals at temples to stop the rains and cause drought.

The complaint states that no temple records, priest statements, receipts or other evidence supporting these allegations have so far been made public.

It further states that complaints were submitted at the Osmania University and Vanasthalipuram Police Stations on August 4, followed by a representation at the DGP’s office on August 17. However, according to the complaint, no FIR was registered and no reasons were communicated for the failure to register the case.

The complaint expressed concern that public statements by persons holding high constitutional and political offices linking rainfall or drought to occult practices could promote superstition among the public. It also warned that such claims could encourage accusations of witchcraft in rural areas and potentially lead to attacks against women, widows, elderly persons and members of SC/ST communities.