Tue Mar 11 17:00:02 UTC 2025: **Karnataka High Court Intervenes in Gold Smuggling Case, Restrains DRI from Arresting Actor’s Husband**
Bengaluru, March 12, 2025 – The Karnataka High Court has intervened in an ongoing gold smuggling investigation, ordering the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) to refrain from arresting Jatin Vijayakumar Hukkeri, husband of actress Ranya Rao. Mr. Hukkeri, 39, filed a petition alleging harassment and unlawful interrogation by DRI officials since March 9th, claiming physical assault and disregard for court guidelines on summoning and detention.
The court issued an interim order preventing any coercive action against Mr. Hukkeri, who maintains he is neither an accused in the case nor involved in or benefited from the alleged gold smuggling. He stated in his petition that he married Ms. Rao in November 2024, but their marriage quickly deteriorated due to irreconcilable differences.
Mr. Hukkeri also cited pre-existing anxiety issues exacerbated by the DRI’s actions and the stress of his marital problems. The High Court’s intervention highlights concerns over due process and potential abuse of power during the investigation.
First Piper 