A major political row has erupted in Uttarakhand after Congress MLA Sumit Hridayesh from Haldwani leveled serious allegations regarding the electronic surveillance of politicians and their families. Speaking at a press conference, the lawmaker claimed that an active hacking racket is operating within the state, compromising the mobile devices of leaders and tracking their private correspondence. Expressing deep frustration over the lack of police action, he threatened to carry out self-immolation during the upcoming assembly session scheduled to begin in Gairsain on October 27.
Claims of International Hackers Tracking Political Leaders
Sumit Hridayesh alleged that international hackers are being utilized to breach smartphones and monitor call conversations. According to him, the primary objective is to eavesdrop on confidential discussions to uncover who is communicating with whom. He cited the examples of prominent figures within his party, including former Chief Minister Harish Rawat and Congress campaign committee chief Pritam Singh. Hridayesh pointed out that if such private strategic conversations are intercepted, tactical moves can easily be manipulated during elections to undermine political adversaries.
Device Inspection Turned Into Alleged Betrayal
Detailing how the breach was discovered, the Haldwani representative explained that he had initially handed his mobile phone to two individuals to inspect it for potential security compromises. While the duo initially dismissed any possibility of hacking, Hridayesh stated he later discovered that both individuals were actively complicit in the surveillance racket itself. He subsequently lodged a named police complaint against the two persons on April 24 last year, but claimed that law enforcement authorities failed to take any decisive action against the accused.
Concerns Over Family Safety and Privacy in Democracy
The Congress lawmaker expressed acute concern for the safety and privacy of his wife and 15-year-old daughter, noting that the syndicate continues to operate brazenly without any fear of the law. Defending his decision to take an extreme protest step, Hridayesh insisted that he will not merely attempt self-immolation but will carry it through completely. He stressed that his planned protest is not driven by self-interest but by a determination to protect democracy, questioning what remains of the political process if personal privacy is entirely eradicated.
Exonerating the State Government While Acknowledging Personal Risk
When questioned about the potential involvement of the state administration in orchestrating this surveillance, Hridayesh stated that he does not believe the state machinery is behind it. He emphasized that he shares positive personal relations with the Chief Minister, whom he regards as a good person. While refusing to publicly disclose specific names by calling it a matter under investigation, he maintained that a proper inquiry following his complaint would expose the network. However, he also admitted that bringing these explosive claims into the public domain has exposed his life to substantial danger.
Harish Rawat Urges Restraint and Pledges Support
Responding to the startling claims, veteran Congress leader Harish Rawat characterized the issues raised by Hridayesh as deeply troubling. In a social media post, Rawat highlighted the intense challenges and uncomfortable circumstances that organised syndicates can inflict upon individuals in public life, while also pointing toward the patronage such groups might enjoy. Urging Hridayesh to navigate this crisis with courage, patience, and composure, Rawat affirmed that the party stands firmly by his side and will support him under all circumstances.
