Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 13: In a surprising move, the Karnataka government has withdrawn the CID investigation into the high-profile gold smuggling case involving Sandalwood actress Ranya Rao and instead ordered an IAS-led inquiry. The decision has triggered speculation over possible political and bureaucratic connections in the case.

Initially, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) was assigned to probe the case after reports surfaced of protocol violations by police personnel at the airport. The investigation focused on whether certain officials facilitated Ranya Rao’s passage through security during her alleged smuggling operation.

However, in a swift reversal, the government announced that additional chief secretary Gaurav Gupta would now lead the investigation. The decision, formalized by undersecretary H Mahalaxmi (internal department - crimes), cited the need for a senior administrative officer to oversee the matter.

The new investigation will examine:

• The alleged misuse of police protocol by Ranya Rao.

• The role of DGP (police housing corporation) K Ramachandra Rao, her stepfather, in extending special privileges.

• Any political connections linked to the smuggling network.

The home department has also initiated an internal inquiry to determine how Ranya Rao bypassed standard airport security checks. Investigators are probing whether her stepfather’s influence played a role in granting unauthorized privileges at Bengaluru International Airport.

Sources suggest that Ranya Rao may have used her connections to smuggle gold from Dubai, raising concerns about potential loopholes in airport security protocols and systemic lapses.
The case has taken a political turn, with speculation that a powerful politician may have shielded the actress. Reports indicate that the government’s sudden withdrawal of the CID probe may have been influenced by pressure from influential figures.

Meanwhile, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), which arrested Ranya Rao last week, has submitted a report to the court, stating that the case has international hawala and smuggling links, making it a matter of national security.

Senior counsel Madhu Rao, representing the DRI, opposed Ranya Rao’s bail plea, arguing that a larger smuggling syndicate could be involved. The court has reserved its verdict on the matter.

With multiple agencies involved, the case has drawn nationwide attention. The CBI and DRI continue their parallel investigations into the smuggling racket. Meanwhile, the state-led IAS probe is expected to uncover any misuse of power by law enforcement officials.

As the inquiry progresses, all eyes are on the government’s next move and whether the investigation will expose the deeper nexus between smuggling networks, law enforcement, and political circles.