Ranya Rao's Husband Seeks Exemption From Arrest In Gold Smuggling Case, Claims Separation From Actress Shortly After Marriage

Ranya Rao Gold Smuggling Case: The controversy involving the actress deepens with each new revelation. On Monday, Jatin Hukkeri, the husband of Kannada actress Ranya Rao, requested protection from arrest, stating that he and his wife separated soon after their marriage.

Ranya Rao’s husband revealed being separated from the actress a month after marriage

On March 11, the Karnataka High Court directed that no action be taken against Hukkeri, who had approached the court fearing possible custody due to his association with Rao.

Hukkeri’s advocate, Prabhuling Navadagi, sought this relief, informing the court that the couple, married in November 2024, had been living apart since December due to personal differences.

The court granted Hukkeri temporary protection, ruling that no legal action would proceed against him until the next hearing. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), leading the investigation, stated it would file an objection to Hukkeri’s plea on 24 March. Despite this, the court upheld its earlier order, ensuring Hukkeri’s protection until the objection was reviewed.

Hukkeri got attention after IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, Rao’s father, claimed his daughter had distanced herself from the family following her marriage.

Also Read: Ranya Rao Gold Smuggling Case: Actress' Step-Father DGP Ramachandra Rao Interrogated

Ranya Rao's step-father questioned in gold smuggling case

On March 3, Ranya Rao was arrested at the Bengaluru International Airport in connection with a high-profile gold smuggling case. Her bail petition was heard in the Sessions court today, March 17. The court has adjourned the case for March 19 and has directed the DRI's counsel to file objections by then. Amid this, her stepfather was interrogated.

Ramachandra Rao was sent on compulsory leave with immediate effect by the Karnataka State Government on March 16. On the 17th, he was questioned in the gold smuggling case. IAS officer Gaurav Gupta-led the investigating team conducted the inquiry. They recorded his statement which is likely to be submitted to the government in the next two days. The government had instructed the committee to submit the report within a week.