Gold smuggling case: Ranya Rao's husband seeks exemption from arrest
What's the story
Jatin Hukkeri, husband of Kannada actor Ranya Rao, has approached the court seeking protection from arrest in his wife's gold smuggling case.
Per India Today, Hukkeri's lawyer alleged that the couple, who got married in November 2024, were living separately since December over personal differences.
Earlier, the Karnataka High Court had granted him temporary relief until the next hearing.
Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), which is leading the investigation, said it'll file an objection against Hukkeri's plea on March 24.
Inquiry update
Rao's stepfather under investigation for alleged involvement in smuggling
Meanwhile, Rao's stepfather-Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ramachandra Rao, is also under investigation for allegedly helping the gold smuggling operation.
He was recently questioned by authorities over claims that he misused his position to aid the operation.
The probe was launched after a Protocol Officer who helped Rao said he acted under specific instructions from Ramachandra.
The IAS officer Gaurav Gupta-led inquiry is nearing completion with a final report due in the next two days.
Official leave
Ramachandra was placed on leave amid investigation
After the allegations surfaced, Ramachandra was sent on compulsory leave on March 15. He is currently the Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation.
Earlier, the DGP (Director General of Police) rank officer had shrugged off any involvement in the case, claiming estranged relations with his stepdaughter since her marriage.
Allegations
Meanwhile, Rao has accused DRI of torture
Rao, who is at the center of the gold smuggling controversy, has made some serious allegations against the DRI.
In a handwritten letter addressed to the Additional Director General of DRI, she revealed she was beaten up, starved, deprived of sleep, and forced to sign blank papers under duress.
"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," Rao added.