Bengaluru: Karnataka Minister MB Patil on Monday alleged that actress Ranya Rao, who has been arrested in connection with a gold smuggling case, was allocated two acres of KIADB land in Sira during the previous BJP government.
"I came across reports on some news channels suggesting that an actress, Ranya Rao, who has been named in a gold smuggling case, was allocated two acres of Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) land in Sira. I learned about this from the news and immediately checked with my officials," Patil told reporters here.
The Minister stated that a total of 12 acres in Sira was allotted for a TMT factory during the previous BJP government. Out of this, two acres were reportedly allocated to Ranya Rao and her two brothers, who are believed to be partners in the venture.
"I have sought further details from my department to verify whether they have made the necessary payments for the land and if possession has been taken. I expect to receive this information by the afternoon and will share it accordingly," he added.
Ranya was arrested last week at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport allegedly with gold bars worth Rs 12 crore concealed in a hidden belt strapped to her body. She was remanded to the custody of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) until March 10.
Authorities also seized cash and jewellery worth several crores of rupees from her residence.
Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case against an international drug smuggling network and launched a probe into its operations.
Ranya is the stepdaughter of senior Karnataka IPS officer K. Ramachandra Rao, who has distanced himself from the controversy, stating that he has no knowledge of her activities as she lives with her husband, Jatin Hukkeri.
