Synopsis
On March 15, a special court in Bengaluru denied bail to actress Ranya Rao in a gold smuggling case, citing severe economic ramifications and her extensive travel history to Dubai. The court emphasized the ongoing investigation and potential risks to witnesses.Key Takeaways
- Ranya Rao denied bail in gold smuggling case.
- 27 trips to Dubai since January 2025 highlighted.
- Serious economic implications of the alleged crimes noted.
- Investigation involves multiple agencies including DRI and ED.
- Concerns about witness intimidation and evidence tampering raised.
Bengaluru, March 15 (NationPress) A special court in Bengaluru has denied bail to actress Ranya Rao, also known as Harshavardhini Ranya, in the gold smuggling case, emphasizing that the alleged crime poses serious threats to the economy of the nation. The court highlighted her travel history, noting that she has made 27 trips to Dubai since January 2025.
The Special Court for Economic Offences dismissed her bail application on Friday, as she remains incarcerated at Bengaluru Central Prison. The investigation is being conducted by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Additionally, the state government has appointed Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta to examine the involvement of Ranya Rao's stepfather, DGP K. Ramachandra Rao, and any lapses by the police.
In his ruling, Special Judge Vishwanath C. Gowdar stated, "The fact that the accused No.1 (Ranya Rao) holds a Resident Identity Card for the UAE and has a history of traveling to Dubai on 27 occasions since January 2025 does not favor granting bail..."
He added, "The arguments presented by the accused No.1 regarding bail are matters for the trial, given that the alleged crime significantly impacts the economy. The concealment of contraband is enough to establish her mens rea (the intention or knowledge of wrongdoing).
Considering that the investigation is ongoing and the severity of the economic offense affects the country's financial stability and poses risks to legitimate gold traders, the court remarked.
The judge also mentioned that Ranya Rao's lack of full cooperation during the investigation contributed to the decision against granting bail.
Concerns about the potential for the accused to intimidate witnesses or evade legal processes were also significant factors.
"At this initial stage, the allegations against the accused No.1 are compelling, with evidence indicating her involvement in smuggling gold bars valued at approximately Rs 4,83,72,694, far exceeding the Rs 50 lakh threshold set by the Customs Act," the court highlighted.
Furthermore, the remand applications reveal a conspiracy involving the accused No.1 and the State Police Protocol Officer, alongside allegations of using Hawala transactions to transfer money internationally.
The court's review of the case files indicates that the allegations against the actress are serious, as she allegedly attempted to smuggle 14,213.05 grams of gold into India by concealing it on her body with medical adhesive bandages and other means.
Ranya Rao's entry through the Green Channel at Terminal-2, KIAL suggests an intention to evade customs duties.
"The argument for bail based on her gender does not convince the court, given the serious nature of the accusations against her, which could jeopardize national security and revenue," the court concluded, stating that it would not grant bail at this time.
