Karnataka BJP MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal has stirred controversy with a crude remark against Kannada actor Ranya Rao, who was recently arrested in a high-profile gold smuggling case. While demanding strict action, Basangouda Patil Yatnal made an inappropriate comment about how the actor allegedly smuggled gold, sparking widespread condemnation.
Speaking to the media, the Bijapur City MLA stated, “She had gold all over her body, hiding it wherever she had holes, and smuggled it in.” His remarks have drawn criticism for being distasteful and demeaning. The senior leader, who previously served as a Union Minister, also alleged that several state ministers were involved in the smuggling network and vowed to expose them during the upcoming Assembly session.
“I will name all the ministers linked to this case in the Assembly. I have gathered complete details about her contacts, how she secured security clearance, and the smuggling process. Everything will be revealed,” Basangouda Patil Yatnal asserted, adding that he had concrete evidence.
The case took a dramatic turn when Ranya Rao, stepdaughter of Karnataka DGP Ramchandra Rao, was arrested at Bengaluru Airport on March 3. Authorities seized 14.2 kg of gold worth Rs 12.56 crore from her luggage upon her return from Dubai. Following her arrest, a raid at her residence led to the recovery of gold jewelry worth Rs 2.06 crore and Rs 2.67 crore in cash. Her bail plea was subsequently rejected, and she remains in custody as investigations continue.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and other agencies have revealed that Ranya Rao made at least 27 trips to Dubai in the past year, allegedly smuggling gold each time while bypassing security checks. The airport’s protocol officer has reportedly claimed that he acted on direct orders from her father, DGP Ramchandra Rao.
Despite the allegations, Ranya Rao has denied any wrongdoing, claiming she has been falsely accused. In a letter to the Additional Director General of the DRI, she alleged that officials assaulted her and coerced her into signing pre-typed documents.
According to her statement, she was slapped multiple times and forced to sign around 50 to 60 typed papers, along with 40 blank sheets. Her father, DGP Ramchandra Rao, who is currently the Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation, has also come under scrutiny. He has been placed on compulsory leave pending further investigation.
The case has raised serious concerns about the involvement of influential figures in organized gold smuggling and the alleged misuse of power. With political tensions rising, all eyes are on the upcoming Assembly session, where Basangouda Patil Yatnal has promised to disclose more details.
