In a significant development in the gold smuggling case involving Kannada actress Ranya Rao, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered a ₹40 lakh payment made towards Rao’s credit card dues by an educational trust associated with Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G Parameshwara. The trust reportedly failed to provide documentation justifying this transaction, which was allegedly cleared on the instructions of an ‘influential’ individual.
The ED’s investigation into the case has revealed a complex network of financial irregularities and potential money laundering activities. Raids were conducted across 16 locations in Karnataka, targeting hawala operators, shell companies, and trusts involved in layering illicit funds. Several hawala operators have confessed to procuring smuggled gold through Ranya Rao, who allegedly acted as an intermediary in selling the gold to jewellers across the state .
The ₹40 lakh payment by the educational trust towards Rao’s credit card dues has drawn particular attention. The trust, linked to Minister Parameshwara, could not provide any documentation to justify the payment, which was allegedly cleared on the instructions of an ‘influential’ individual .
In response to the ED’s actions, Congress leaders have alleged political vendetta. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah have defended Minister Parameshwara, describing him as a “humble, simple man” and asserting that he is not involved in any wrongdoing.
Minister Parameshwara has stated that he will cooperate fully with the ED’s investigation and has instructed his staff to provide all necessary information. However, he declined to comment on the specific allegations regarding the ₹40 lakh payment, stating that he would respond after the investigation is complete.
Ranya Rao, who was arrested on March 3 at the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru with 14.2 kg of gold valued at over ₹12.56 crore, was granted bail by a special court for Economic Offences in Bengaluru. However, she remains in custody under the provisions of the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act (COFEPOSA).
The ED’s investigation into the gold smuggling case and its potential links to political figures continues.
