Did DRI Impose a ₹102 Crore Penalty on Actress Ranya Rao for Gold Smuggling?
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Synopsis
In a shocking revelation, the DRI has slapped a hefty fine on Ranya Rao for her involvement in a gold smuggling racket. With the actress facing serious legal challenges and potential asset attachment, the case unfolds further with implications for all involved. Stay tuned for more updates on this intriguing story!
Key Takeaways
- Ranya Rao faces a massive penalty for gold smuggling.
- The DRI is moving quickly in its investigation.
- Legal proceedings under COFEPOSA are ongoing.
- Asset attachment is a potential outcome if fines are unpaid.
- The case highlights serious implications for the accused.
Bengaluru, Sep 2 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has served a show-cause notice to incarcerated actress Ranya Rao, demanding a fine of Rs 102.55 crore for the smuggling of 127.3 kilograms of gold, as confirmed by sources on Tuesday.
It has been reported that the DRI issued this show-cause notice as part of the ongoing investigation into the illegal gold smuggling case. This notice follows an adjudication process, and according to regulations, the DRI is required to recover smuggled items within a six-month timeframe.
On March 4, DRI officials confiscated gold and apprehended Ranya at the Bengaluru international airport. The investigation has validated the smuggling of 127.3 kg of gold.
On Tuesday, DRI agents visited Bengaluru Central Jail to deliver show-cause notices to Ranya and three additional suspects. Ranya Rao is now obligated to pay a penalty of Rs 102.55 crore.
If the fine remains unpaid, there is a warning that their assets could be subject to attachment.
Moreover, it has been confirmed that the second accused, Tarun Raju, was involved in the smuggling of 67.6 kilograms of gold, incurring a penalty of Rs 62 crore.
Other individuals involved, Sahil Jain and Bharat Jain, were found guilty of smuggling 63.61 kilograms of gold each and have been directed to pay Rs 53 crore each as a penalty. Additionally, criminal proceedings will continue against all implicated parties.
Meanwhile, a petition contesting the enforcement of the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act (COFEPOSA) 1974 was reviewed in the High Court on Tuesday, which has adjourned the matter until September 11.
The DRI has expedited the investigation and has initiated recovery procedures.
Previously, the Advisory Board under the DRI had affirmed the application of the COFEPOSA against Ranya Rao on July 17.
The board also instructed that Ranya would not be allowed to file a bail petition for a year from her arrest date under the COFEPOSA Act.
The Advisory Board mandated that no bail application should be submitted on Ranya's behalf. Following this order, the DRI communicated this directive to jail authorities.
Although a special court had previously granted Ranya bail, she remained detained due to the case being filed under a specialized law.
The Central Economic Intelligence Bureau (CEIB), a nodal entity under the Ministry of Finance, invoked the COFEPOSA Act against the actress and other suspects in the gold smuggling case, acting on a recommendation from the DRI.
Under the provisions of the COFEPOSA Act, Ranya will need to remain in custody for a maximum of one year.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of transparency and due process in cases like this. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence's actions reflect the government's commitment to combatting smuggling. It's crucial to ensure justice is served while upholding the rights of the accused, highlighting the balance needed in such high-profile cases.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty imposed on Ranya Rao?
The DRI has imposed a penalty of ₹102.55 crore on Ranya Rao for her involvement in gold smuggling.
How much gold was Ranya Rao accused of smuggling?
Ranya Rao is accused of smuggling 127.3 kilograms of gold.
What is COFEPOSA?
COFEPOSA stands for the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act, aimed at combating smuggling and related activities.
What happens if Ranya Rao doesn't pay the penalty?
If the penalty is not paid, Ranya Rao's properties may be subject to attachment.
When is the next hearing for the COFEPOSA petition?
The next hearing for the COFEPOSA petition is scheduled for September 11.
