Gold Smuggling Scandal: BJP Demands Ministerial Accountability in Karnataka

BJP Karnataka President BY Vijayendra has called for the disclosure of ministers allegedly linked to the Ranya Rao gold smuggling case. Accusations suggest governmental influence to aid the actress, who is the daughter of a senior IPS officer. Ongoing investigations involve CBI and ED at the center of this major controversy.

In a significant accusation, Bharatiya Janata Party Karnataka President BY Vijayendra has demanded that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reveal the identities of ministers purportedly entangled in the controversial Ranya Rao gold smuggling case. Speaking to reporters, Vijayendra emphasized reports indicating ministerial involvement in facilitating the smuggling operation.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Vijayendra mentioned the arrest of Ranya Rao, the daughter of a senior IPS officer, at Bangalore International Airport. She allegedly traveled over 30 times to Dubai, suggesting deep-rooted collusion involving high-ranking officials. "If protocol exemptions and police escorts are in place, it hints at powerful connections," Vijayendra asserted, urging the Chief Minister to act transparently.

The investigation has expanded to include the CBI and ED. Concurrently, BJP leader Bharath Shetty accused the Karnataka government of attempting to sway local police investigations to extricate Rao from legal troubles. The Economic Offences Court in Bengaluru has remanded Ranya Rao to judicial custody amid serious allegations of smuggling 14.8 kg of gold.

(With inputs from agencies.)