DGP Ramachandra Rao denies knowledge of stepdaughter Ranya Rao’s involvement in gold smuggling

Kannada actress Ranya Rao's gold smuggling case leads to a significant seizure worth ₹17.29 crore, involving her stepfather, a top police official.

DGP of Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation, Ramachandra Rao on Thursday (March 7, 2025) denied any knowledge of his stepdaughter Ranya Rao's alleged involvement in gold smuggling, calling the situation "unimaginable".

Authorities seized gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore from Kannada actress Ranya Rao at the Kempegowda international airport here recently. Subsequent searches at her residence led to the recovery of gold jewellery worth ₹2.06 crore and Indian currency amounting to ₹2.67 crore, according to Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).

In a press statement, Mr. Rao expressed deep distress over the incident, saying his reputation has been tarnished irreparably.

He emphasised his lifelong dedication to honesty, integrity and discipline and said his commitment to public service has always been his priority.

“It is deeply distressing that, despite this lifelong dedication, my reputation and family's future are now being tarnished by something beyond our control,” the top police official said.

“I understand that in speculative times like these, my years of hard work may be unfairly associated with these events.”

Mr. Rao further said, “I ask all of you to recognise that I too am a grieving parent. I had no knowledge of such an unimaginable situation unfolding in my life. I respectfully ask from everyone, fairness towards both myself and my family.”