Karnataka government orders probe into Ranya Rao gold smuggling case, DGP’s role under scrutiny

Kannada actor Ranya Rao’s arrest sparks investigation into airport protocol breach and alleged political links

The Karnataka government has launched an investigation into the high-profile gold smuggling case involving Kannada actor Ranya Rao and the alleged misuse of airport protocols. The inquiry will focus on the role of senior IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, the stepfather of the accused, who is suspected of enabling unauthorized access at the Kempegowda International Airport.

Government Orders Investigation

On March 10, the Siddaramaiah-led government appointed Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta to examine the circumstances surrounding the case. The probe will determine if Ramachandra Rao, who serves as the Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Corporation, misused his position to facilitate Ranya Rao’s alleged smuggling activities.

Key Developments in the Case:

• The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) arrested Tarun Raju, the grandson of Bengaluru’s Atria Hotel owner, in connection with the smuggling network.

• Authorities allege that Ranya Rao used Ramachandra Rao’s influence to bypass security protocols at the airport.

• The actor was apprehended on March 3 at Bengaluru airport while carrying 14.8 kg of gold worth ₹12.56 crore.

• She was initially remanded to DRI custody until March 10. After three days of interrogation, she appeared before the Economic Offenses Court, where she accused officials of mental harassment.

• During the hearing, Ranya Rao claimed that DRI officers verbally abused and pressured her into signing documents. She denied being physically tortured, stating that viral images showing her with swollen eyes were due to emotional distress.

• A special court in Bengaluru has now placed her in judicial custody for 14 days.

• Her bail plea is set to be heard today.

Political Repercussions

The case has taken a political turn, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing a Karnataka minister of being linked to the gold smuggling racket. BJP leader Vijayendra Yediyurappa took to social media, alleging that the Congress government is embroiled in yet another scandal.

In response, Congress countered with claims that the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board, under the previous BJP government, had facilitated land allocation for Ranya Rao in 2023 to establish a steel plant.

With the investigation ongoing, the case continues to stir controversy, drawing attention to the intersection of crime, politics, and law enforcement in Karnataka.