Karnataka Gold Smuggling Saga: Political Gossip or Real Scandal?

Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar has dismissed claims linking two ministers to a gold smuggling case involving actress Ranya Rao as 'political gossip.' He emphasized that the state government has no involvement, with central agencies like the DRI and CBI handling the investigation.

In a recent development, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has categorically denied any connections between state ministers and the controversial gold smuggling case involving Kannada actress Ranya Rao. Dismissing the allegations as 'political gossip,' Shivakumar maintained that the state government remains uninvolved, as the investigation is being handled by central agencies.

The contentious case came to light when Ranya Rao was apprehended by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on March 3 at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport. Authorities seized gold bars worth Rs 12.56 crore. Further investigations by the DRI unveiled additional assets, including gold jewellery valued at Rs 2.06 crore and Rs 2.67 crore in cash from Rao's residence in Bengaluru.

Emphasizing the independence of the inquiry, Shivakumar reiterated, 'The central government is investigating; let them do it.' The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has officially registered an FIR in this high-profile case, as scrutiny continues into the alleged smuggling network.

(With inputs from agencies.)