BJP MLA Yatnal Charged Over Vulgar Remarks on Ranya Rao in Gold Smuggling Case

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal has been charged for making vulgar remarks about actor Ranya Rao, who is currently in the custody of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in connection with a gold smuggling case.

Yatnal, the legislator from Karnataka’s Bijapur City, sparked controversy on Monday with his comments suggesting that Rao had concealed gold “all over her body.” Speaking to reporters in Kannada, Yatnal alleged, “She (Ranya Rao) had gold all over her body, hiding it wherever she had holes, and smuggled it in.”

The BJP MLA also hinted at a larger conspiracy, alleging the involvement of high-ranking officials and ministers. “I have gathered complete information about her relationships, who helped her obtain security (clearance), and how the gold was brought in. I will expose everything in the session,” he added.

The case came to light after Ranya Rao was caught smuggling 14.2 kg of gold, valued at ₹14.56 crore, upon her arrival from Dubai at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on March 3. Investigators revealed that Rao had made four trips to Dubai in 15 days and 27 trips in the past year, raising suspicions.

Searches at her residence led to the recovery of gold jewellery worth over ₹2 crore and cash amounting to ₹2.67 crore. Sources indicated that the actor would wear some of the gold and hide the rest in her clothing to evade detection.

In her statement, Rao reportedly admitted to smuggling 17 gold bars and revealed details of her frequent international trips, including visits to the Middle East and Western countries. Along with Rao, two others — T Raj, alleged to be closely associated with her, and Tarun Kondaraju, a friend who accompanied her to Dubai — have been taken into custody.

The investigation has also drawn attention to senior police official Ramachandra Rao, who was placed on “compulsory leave” following his stepdaughter’s arrest. Rao denied any involvement, stating he had not been in touch with her since her marriage four months ago and was unaware of her and her husband’s business dealings.

The controversial remarks by Yatnal have ignited backlash, with critics condemning the language used and demanding accountability. Authorities continue to probe the smuggling network and potential high-level connections.