International Injustice: DRI’s Severe Warning on Gold Smuggling, Ranya’s Fate Hangs in Balance
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Indian Actress Ranya Rao’s Gold Smuggling Case Tainted by Procedural Lapses, Claims Counsel
In a heated hearing at the court, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) submitted that the high-profile gold smuggling case involving actress Ranya Rao, stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer, has international and hawala links, making it a matter of national security. The counsel representing the DRI, Madhu Rao, passionately argued against Ranya Rao’s bail petition, stating that an investigation into the smuggling syndicate is necessary, considering the involvement of a police protocol officer and alleged links to international crime.
“We cannot grant bail solely based on the fact that the accused is a woman,” Madhu Rao emphasized, highlighting the need to illuminate the criminal intent behind the case. “The court should not ignore the fact that this is a matter of national security, with international links and smuggling carried out with the help of a police officer.” The counsel also pointed out that Ranya’s possession of a Dubai resident ID card increases the risk of her fleeing the country, adding, “There is no valid reason to grant her bail, especially considering the significant value of the seizures – gold worth Rs 12.56 crore, cash of Rs 2.67 crore, and Rs 2.06 crore worth of gold.”
Rao further argued that the investigation is ongoing, and granting Ranya Rao bail could potentially compromise the entire probe. “She is not cooperating with the authorities, and it is crucial to follow the Supreme Court’s guidelines in the Radhika Agarwal case,” he stated. “If bail is granted, there is a high chance she may flee the country, and crucial evidence could be destroyed. At this stage, she is best suited to remain in custody.” Rao also pointed out that the second accused in the case has been arrested, and further investigations are underway.
Meanwhile, senior advocate Kiran Javali, representing Ranya Rao, countered the arguments, stating that DRI officials had failed to provide any declaration for the gold brought by Ranya Rao. “No supporting documents were provided to justify the possession of the gold. Section 102 of the Customs Act outlines clear guidelines on who should be present during a search,” he argued. Javali also alleged that the DRI officials did not follow the provisions of the Customs Act during the arrest, adding, “Due to these lapses, bail must be granted. We are not debating whether Ranya is guilty or not, but procedural violations by investigators warrant bail.” He also emphasized that the accused must be informed of the charges against them and presented before a Gazetted Customs Officer or a Magistrate, as per legal provisions.
The case has raised concerns over procedural lapses, with the high court issuing an interim order against the husband of Ranya Rao, Jatin Vijaykumar Hukkeri, to stop his arrest. The couple has claimed repeated scrutiny by DRI officials, with Ranya Rao’s counsel arguing that her continued remand is unjustified due to the serious procedural concerns surrounding the investigation.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/gold-smuggling-dri-cites-national-security-concerns-global-hawala-links-says-ranya-should-remain-in-jail
Category : Entertainment
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Publish Date: 2025-03-12 19:53:00
