ED Raids Karnataka Home Minister in Ranya Rao Gold Smuggling Case: Pralhad Joshi Accuses Siddaramaiah of Knowing the Truth

ED raids Karnataka Home Minister G Parmeshwar Rao in Ranya Rao gold smuggling case. Pralhad Joshi alleges Siddaramaiah knew about internal complaints. Congress hits back.

Bengaluru, May 23, 2025 – In a dramatic political development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted raids on educational institutions linked to Karnataka Home Minister G Parmeshwar Rao. The raids are part of the ongoing investigation into the high-profile Ranya Rao gold smuggling case, which has rocked the political corridors of the state.

The ED claims that Rs 40 lakh was allegedly diverted by an educational trust associated with Parmeshwar Rao to settle a credit card bill belonging to Kannada actress Ranya Rao. According to ED sources, the payment was made on the instructions of an influential individual.

Pralhad Joshi’s Explosive Allegation: “Siddaramaiah Knew Everything”

Soon after the raids, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi made a sensational claim, saying that the complaint leading to the ED action came from within the Congress party itself. In a sharp attack, Joshi stated:

“The Congress’s own people have complained to the Enforcement Directorate. A faction within the Congress is sending information against Parameshwara and now doing drama. Siddaramaiah knows everything — the intelligence is under him.”

Joshi further added that while he respects Parameshwara as a “decent politician,” the internal rift in Congress is being exposed through these developments.

DK Shivakumar Defends Parameshwara: “It Was Just a Wedding Gift”

In a quick rebuttal, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar defended his cabinet colleague, calling the transaction a wedding gift to actress Ranya Rao. He said:

“I just spoke to Parameshwara. There was a marriage ceremony. We’re in public life and run institutions. As a gesture, we often give gifts. It could be Re 1 or Rs 10 lakh. I think he might have given a gift. It’s nothing unusual.”

This clarification, however, did little to calm the political storm, with BJP continuing its attack and Congress accusing the ruling party at the Centre of using investigative agencies to target its leaders.

Parameshwara Responds: “Will Cooperate Fully with ED”

Amid the growing controversy, Home Minister G Parmeshwar Rao issued a brief statement, confirming his willingness to cooperate with the ED in the investigation. He refrained from making any political remarks, stating that he believes in the rule of law and has nothing to hide.

Congress Hits Back at BJP: “Political Vendetta”

Reacting sharply, the Congress party accused the BJP of politicising the issue. Party spokespersons alleged that the BJP was misusing central agencies to harass opposition leaders and destabilise the Congress government in Karnataka.

A senior Congress leader commented:

“This is clearly a politically motivated move. BJP knows it cannot defeat us electorally in Karnataka, so they are resorting to cheap tactics. We will not be intimidated.”

What Is the Ranya Rao Gold Smuggling Case?

The Ranya Rao gold smuggling case involves allegations that Kannada actress Ranya Rao was a key link in a smuggling network, using her celebrity status to bypass scrutiny. The ED is investigating alleged money laundering channels used in the operation, and the link to educational institutions has added a fresh twist.

With the ED tightening its grip, and internal rivalries within the Congress party coming into the spotlight, Karnataka is witnessing a political drama that could have far-reaching consequences. As the investigation unfolds, the state awaits answers — and possibly more twists in the tale.