India, March 16 -- The Karnataka government has placed IPS officer K. Ramachandra Rao, the Director General of Police (DGP) and Additional Director General of Police for Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd., on compulsory leave with immediate effect. The move follows an inquiry into allegations of power misuse and nepotism linked to the arrest of his stepdaughter, Kannada actress Ranya Rao, in a high-profile gold smuggling case.

The controversy erupted after Ranya was arrested on March 3, 2025, at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). Authorities seized 14.2 kg of gold biscuits strapped to her body upon her arrival from Dubai. Investigations suggest she was part...