Kannada actor Ranya Rao’s stepfather, Ramachandra Rao, a DGP-rank officer in Karnataka, has been questioned by the investigating authorities in connection with a gold smuggling case linked to his daughter.
According to India Today, the inquiry, led by IAS officer Gaurav Gupta, is nearing completion, with the final report expected to be submitted within the next two days.
The investigation has focused on allegations that Ramachandra Rao allegedly misused his official position to facilitate the smuggling operation. His name reportedly surfaced after a Protocol Officer, who assisted Ranya Rao, allegedly told investigators that he had done so under Rao’s specific instructions. In light of the allegations, Ramachandra Rao was placed on compulsory leave on March 15, 2025. He currently serves as the Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation.
Reacting to the case, Ramachandra Rao earlier expressed his disbelief and denied any involvement. “I was also shocked and devastated when such an incident came to my notice through the media. I was not aware of any of these things. Like any other father, I was also shocked,” he said, emphasizing that he had no prior knowledge of the smuggling activities. He further suggested that personal conflicts could have played a role, adding, “There must be some problem between them due to some family issues. Anyway, the law will do its job. There is no black mark in my career. I don’t want to say anything more.”
Meanwhile, Ranya Rao recently wrote a hand-written letter addressed to the Additional Director General of DRI, HBR Layout, Bengaluru, which reportedly reads, “One official threatened to expose my father’s identity, despite him having no involvement. I was deprived of sleep and proper food in DRI custody. No mahazar was drawn, no search was conducted, and nothing was recovered from me. Some officials are trying to protect other passengers while framing me.”
