Why Are ED Raids Ongoing at Locations Linked to K'taka Home Minister Parameshwara?
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Synopsis
The ongoing ED raids at educational institutions tied to Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara have stirred political controversy. With connections to a high-profile gold smuggling case involving actress Ranya Rao, the investigation raises questions about corruption and accountability in the state's political landscape. What does this mean for the involved parties?
Key Takeaways
- ED raids are ongoing at institutions linked to Karnataka Home Minister.
- Investigations are tied to a high-profile gold smuggling case.
- Political ramifications are significant for both the BJP and Congress.
- Allegations of financial misconduct are being scrutinized.
- Public trust in governance may be at stake.
Tumakuru (Karnataka), May 22 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has persisted in its operations for the second straight day at educational institutions associated with Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara in Tumakuru city.
According to sources within the ED, these raids are connected to financial activities tied to the gold smuggling investigation involving actress Ranya Rao, although an official confirmation is still pending.
The BJP has connected the raids to the actress's gold smuggling scandal, while the Congress has condemned the ED's actions.
Raids have been conducted at the Sri Siddhartha Institute of Technology (SSIT) located on Kunigal Road, Sree Siddhartha School of Engineering near Kyatsandra Till Gate on the national highway, and Sri Siddhartha Medical College in Tumakuru.
As per reports, ED officials commenced their operations at 9 a.m. on Wednesday and worked until 2 a.m., resuming early the following morning with a team of 40 officers involved in the raids.
This team has been granted police protection deployed at the sites.
Sources indicate that these searches are linked to illegal monetary transactions involving Ranya Rao, identified as the primary suspect in the gold smuggling case.
Investigations have revealed that a transfer of Rs 40 lakh was made to Rao's account from an educational trust associated with Minister Parameshwara, reportedly based on oral instructions. The educational institution processed this credit card bill as a payment for labor, sources disclosed.
Official statements are anticipated once the raids conclude.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka BJP has reiterated the connection of these raids to the gold smuggling case involving Ranya Rao.
During a press conference, Opposition Leader R. Ashoka criticized the Congress-led government for its shortcomings over the past two years.
Responding to inquiries, Ashoka stated, "The Siddhartha Educational Institutions are under investigation concerning the gold smuggling case."
He remarked, "The ED is a government investigative body. Evidence suggests that gold was brought here and distributed to various individuals. They likely discovered that the proceeds from gold smuggling were being funneled into Siddhartha Education institutions," Ashoka asserted.
"Action must be taken against all involved. Congress leaders show no fear even in cases like the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) and Valmiki Corporation scams. Those guilty must face justice," he emphasized.
He urged for a continuation of the investigation, insisting the probe should be thorough, and all implicated individuals should be penalized.
The Congress party has strongly criticized the Central government's ED raids on educational institutions run by Minister Parameshwara, labeling it a reaction fueled by the BJP's frustration.
National General Secretary and Karnataka In-Charge Randeep Singh Surjewala expressed on social media X on Wednesday, stating, "The ED's raids on the educational institutions of Karnataka’s Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, a prominent leader of the SC community, reflect the BJP and Prime Minister Modi’s government frustration following the distribution of ownership rights to 1 lakh SC-ST families on May 20 in Hospet."
He further stated that the ongoing attack on the Constitution and leaders from SC-ST-OBC communities across India has become a disturbing trend.
“The targeting of Parameshwara is part of this sinister agenda,” he asserted.
Surjewala pointed out that Parameshwara has managed the Siddhartha Institute of Technology, established 46 years ago in 1979, and the Siddartha Medical College, founded in 1988, in the rural areas of Tumakuru to further educational opportunities.
“It is astonishing that after 46 years of this institution's establishment, the Modi-led government is seeking to uncover misconduct, while the BJP’s corruption is under investigation by the Home Ministry concerning G. Parameshwara,” he asserted.
He concluded that the ED raids seem like a desperate measure to distract from the corruption of prior BJP administrations and silence those who advocate for the marginalized.
Point of View
The ED's actions reflect a crucial effort in holding leaders accountable amidst allegations of corruption. The unfolding situation in Karnataka highlights the delicate balance of power and governance, emphasizing the need for transparency and integrity within political institutions. As the investigation progresses, it will be essential to monitor its implications for the state's governance and public trust.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the ED raids?
The ED raids are primarily linked to financial transactions associated with the gold smuggling case involving actress Ranya Rao, with connections to educational institutions tied to Home Minister G. Parameshwara.
What institutions are being investigated?
The raids are taking place at the Sri Siddhartha Institute of Technology, Sree Siddhartha School of Engineering, and Sri Siddhartha Medical College, all located in Tumakuru.
What was the nature of the payments involved?
Reports indicate that a payment of Rs 40 lakh was allegedly made to Ranya Rao's account from an educational trust associated with Minister Parameshwara, purportedly for labor services.
How have political parties responded to the raids?
The BJP has linked the raids to the gold smuggling case, while the Congress has condemned the ED's actions as politically motivated and an attack on SC-ST leaders.
What are the implications of these raids?
The raids could have significant political repercussions for the Congress party in Karnataka, raising questions about corruption and governance in the region.
