'She Hid Gold Everywhere She Has Holes': BJP Leader Basangouda Patil Yatnal's Remarks on Ranya Rao Spark Controversy

BJP leader Basangouda Patil Yatnal has sparked controversy with a harsh remark against Kannada actor Ranya Rao, who was arrested in a gold smuggling case two weeks ago. The Bijapur City MLA alleged that she “hid gold everywhere she has holes.”

While demanding strict action against the actor, the MLA stated, “She had gold all over her body, hiding it wherever she had holes, and smuggled it in.”

Yatnal, a former Union Minister, also claimed that he would expose all ministers involved in the case during the upcoming assembly session.

“I have gathered complete information about her relationships, who helped her obtain security, and how the gold was brought in. I will expose everything in the session. Whoever is guilty must be held accountable. Can we defend someone just because they are a central government employee?” he added.

Further pointing out lapses by customs officials, he urged that necessary action be taken against them.

“There were lapses by customs officials, and necessary action should be taken against them. She had gold all over her body and smuggled it in,” Yatnal reiterated.

Ranya Rao’s Arrest 

Ranya Rao, the stepdaughter of Karnataka DGP Ramchandra Rao, was arrested with 14 kg of gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore, hidden in her clothing while returning from Dubai.

Following her arrest, a raid on her residence led to the recovery of gold jewelry worth ₹2.06 crore and ₹2.67 crore in cash.

Also Read: Ranya Rao Gold Smuggling Case: Kannada Actress’ Bail Plea Rejected Over ‘Seriousness Of Charges’

The actress has since been taken into custody but has denied the allegations, claiming she was falsely framed. She has also alleged that she was assaulted and slapped 10 to 15 times to force her into signing around 40 blank pages and 50 to 60 pre-typed documents.

Her stepfather, DGP Ramchandra Rao, who serves as the Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation, has been sent on compulsory leave and is under scrutiny for his alleged involvement in the high-profile case.