Scandal in the Sandalwood: Gold Smuggling Case Engulfs Actress Ranya Rao

Kannada actress Ranya Rao faces allegations of gold smuggling, reportedly using hawala channels. The special court has delayed her bail decision until March 27. Authorities continue to investigate her involvement and potential connections to broader smuggling networks, seizing gold and currency from her upon arrival from Dubai.

Kannada film industry is reeling as actress Harshavardhini Ranya, also known as Ranya Rao, finds herself ensnared in a high-profile gold smuggling case. Prosecutors argue that she admitted to deploying hawala channels for gold purchases, a claim that adds weight to the allegations against her.

The courtroom battle over her bail continues, with the decision now postponed to March 27. Ranya's legal representative, Kiran Jawali, pushes for her release, countered by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence's counsel, Madhu Rao, who provides evidence implicating her in illegal financial activities.

An inquiry under Section 108 of the Customs Act has been launched to trace the roots of these financial irregularities and delineate her role within the smuggling network. Authorities have confiscated gold and currency worth several crores, sparking further investigations. This controversy has also implicated her step-father, a senior officer, who is now under scrutiny.

(With inputs from agencies.)