BJP MLA Yatnal sparks controversy over gold smuggling remark

BJP MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal, known for his provocative statements, has embroiled himself in another controversy with coarse remarks about Ranya Rao, a Kannada actor recently implicated in a gold smuggling investigation.

The MLA from Bijapur City commented on the incident involving the actor, who was apprehended with 14 kg of gold concealed in her clothing at Bengaluru airport, arriving from Dubai. Initial investigations indicate potential involvement from airport staff.

In a video making rounds online, Mr. Yatnal is seen addressing reporters, insisting that all parties found culpable should face consequences. He questioned if an individual could be shielded due to their status as a central government employee, alluding to the senior IPS officer, Ramachandra Rao, who is the actor’s stepfather.

Mr. Rao, having denied any connection to the smuggling incident, was placed on "compulsory leave" following his stepdaughter's arrest.

Referring to alleged negligence by customs officials, Mr. Yatnal asserted the need for necessary disciplinary measures.

He crudely remarked on the manner in which the gold was supposedly concealed by Ms. Rao: “She had gold all over her body, hiding it wherever she had holes, and smuggled it in,” he stated in Kannada.

He further mentioned his intent to disclose the involvement of various ministers during the upcoming assembly session. “I have gathered complete information about her relationships, who assisted her in obtaining security clearance, and the means of smuggling the gold.

I will reveal everything in the session, including the ministers involved and how the gold was concealed," he declared.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar earlier dismissed claims of ministerial involvement as baseless "political gossip."

Mr. Yatnal's controversial comments are not unprecedented. He previously criticized state unit chief B. Y. Vijayendra, son of former Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa, and called for Mr. Yediyurappa’s resignation during his tenure.

In 2023, the Election Commission issued a notice to Mr. Yatnal for referring to Congress leader Sonia Gandhi as a "vishkanya."

Earlier, in 2020, he faced backlash after endorsing the abolition of a wedding assistance scheme for underprivileged women from minority communities, provocatively suggesting, "those who want the scheme can go to Pakistan." He further ignited controversy by labeling a prominent freedom fighter, who passed away at age 103, as a "Pakistani agent" due to his views on the citizenship law.