Karnataka Congress Challenges BJP Over Ranya Rao Case
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Synopsis
The ongoing confrontation between the Karnataka Congress and BJP escalates as the Congress challenges the BJP to name two ministers allegedly linked to a gold smuggling case involving actress Ranya Rao. Accusations fly as both sides attempt to assert their positions amidst political tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Congress challenges BJP to name ministers involved in gold smuggling.
- BJP accuses Congress of complicity in the scandal.
- MLA Yatnal claims to possess information about the ministers' involvement.
- Call for evidence against allegations made by both parties.
- Political tensions continue to rise in Karnataka.
Bengaluru, March 17 (NationPress) The confrontation between the Congress-led government and the opposition BJP intensified on Monday regarding the alleged involvement of two current ministers in a gold smuggling scandal linked to Kannada actress Ranya Rao, who is the stepdaughter of the serving DGP K. Ramachandra Rao.
While the BJP accused the ruling Congress of complicity in the gold smuggling case, the Karnataka Congress issued a challenge for them to disclose the names of the two ministers involved.
BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal asserted he possesses comprehensive information about the alleged involvement of two ministers. “Anyone connected with Ranya Rao and those who provided her security -- I will reveal everything in the House,” Yatnal declared on Sunday. He also made a controversial remark regarding Ranya Rao during a media briefing.
During a press interaction at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Monday, Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka stated that strong rumors are circulating about the two ministers' involvement. “The government should have clarified by now. Given the manner in which this case is being managed, it’s evident that the Congress-led government is implicated,” he claimed.
“I will consult MLA Yatnal regarding the information he possesses. I am unaware of the specifics at this moment,” he added.
Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil responded to the allegations, challenging, “If MLA Yatnal or other BJP leaders have the guts, let them name the ministers they allege are involved. Enough of these unfounded accusations. Let him reveal the names in the Assembly today. He should also mention any ties to former MLAs and Central ministers in this matter.”
Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT Priyank Kharge remarked, “If BJP leaders have information that even the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) lack, let them present it.”
“They must provide evidence. Previously, BJP leaders made accusations regarding the PSI scam, but when pressed for proof, they retreated. If they have names, let them disclose them -- but they must also substantiate their claims. Merely naming individuals is insufficient,” Kharge added.
Minister for Transport Ramalinga Reddy noted, “If they possess information, they should make it public. We cannot prevent them from naming individuals. The media and social media are rife with claims about the involvement of two ministers, and the opposition is fueling the speculation. If they know the names, they should come forward.”
Responding to MLA Yatnal’s controversial statements, A.S. Ponnanna, Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, remarked, “This reflects the typical culture of the BJP. Their attitudes towards women and their patriarchal mindset are evident in Yatnal's statements. He already faces enough challenges within his party -- it would be prudent for him to avoid creating further controversy.”
“His allegations about the ministers’ involvement are purely fabricated. They are creating false narratives because they are politically vulnerable and morally bankrupt. The Karnataka BJP is not just fragmented -- it’s in tatters. Instead of misleading the public with emotional, baseless claims, they should address their internal issues,” Ponnanna concluded.
Arvind Bellad, senior BJP MLA, stated that there is nothing inappropriate about MLA Yatnal exposing the gold smuggling scam. If two ministers are involved, his actions are commendable.
