Ranya Rao Sent to Judicial Custody, Breaks Down in Court Amid Gold Smuggling Allegations

In a dramatic turn of events, Kannada actress Ranya Rao was recently sent to judicial custody until March 24 in connection with a high-profile gold smuggling case. The actress, who is the stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer, was arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru with gold worth Rs 12.56 crore. This incident has sparked a political storm in Karnataka, with both the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP trading accusations.

The Arrest and Investigation

Ranya Rao was taken into custody by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on March 3 after she landed at the airport from Dubai. The DRI had received a tip-off about her involvement in smuggling gold into India. During her interrogation, Rao alleged that she was verbally abused and threatened by DRI officials, which she claimed caused her severe mental distress. However, the DRI denied these allegations, stating that all interactions were recorded on CCTV and that she was questioned based on available evidence.

The investigation revealed that Ranya Rao had traveled extensively, including nearly 30 trips to Dubai in the past year, allegedly smuggling gold on each occasion. She also disclosed that she had visited other countries like Saudi Arabia, Europe, and the United States. The DRI seized gold jewelry worth Rs 2.06 crore and Indian currency amounting to Rs 2.67 crore from her residence.

Judicial Custody and Court Proceedings

On March 10, Ranya Rao was produced before the Economic Offences Court in Bengaluru after three days of DRI custody. During the hearing, she broke down in court, alleging verbal and mental harassment during her interrogation. The court, however, remanded her to judicial custody until March 24.

The DRI officials maintained that all procedures were followed and that there was no physical torture. They also stated that the entire interrogation process was recorded on CCTV, which could be presented in court if needed. Despite these assurances, Ranya Rao's allegations have raised questions about the treatment of suspects in custody.

Political Fallout

The gold smuggling case has become a political hot potato in Karnataka. The BJP has accused the Congress government of shielding Ranya Rao, suggesting that such large-scale smuggling could not have occurred without the involvement of influential figures within the government. BJP state president B Y Vijayendra claimed that the smuggling operation was facilitated by government officials and demanded a thorough investigation.

In response, the Congress has pointed out that the BJP had allotted land to Ranya Rao's company for a steel plant project during their tenure. This has led to a heated exchange between the two parties, with each accusing the other of favoritism and cover-ups.

Another Arrest in the Case

In a related development, Tarun Raju, the grandson of a prominent hotelier in Bengaluru, was arrested by the DRI in connection with the same gold smuggling case. Sources indicate that Tarun Raju was a close associate of Ranya Rao and had collaborated with her in smuggling gold from foreign countries. His arrest highlights the complexity of the smuggling network and the involvement of multiple individuals.

Conclusion

The Ranya Rao gold smuggling case has brought attention to the issue of gold smuggling in India and the potential involvement of influential figures. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the political landscape in Karnataka will be affected. The case also raises important questions about the treatment of suspects in custody and the need for transparency in such investigations.

For now, Ranya Rao remains in judicial custody, awaiting further developments in the case. The involvement of other individuals, like Tarun Raju, suggests that this case may have broader implications for the fight against gold smuggling in India.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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