Karnataka DGP K. Ramachandra Rao Suspended After Alleged Videos Go Viral

The Karnataka government has suspended senior IPS officer K. Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Police and head of the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement, after multiple video clips allegedly showing him in compromising situations with women went viral on social media.

What happened

According to the suspension order, unverified videos circulating online appear to show Rao with multiple women—some reportedly in uniform and others in civilian attire—in what is believed to be his office. The clips are said to contain obscene audio. The government described the alleged conduct as “unbecoming of a government servant” and embarrassing to the state administration.

Based on a prima facie assessment, the government placed Rao under immediate suspension pending a formal inquiry. The order also restricts him from leaving headquarters without prior written permission.

Rao’s response

K. Ramachandra Rao has categorically denied the allegations. He has claimed that the videos are fake, fabricated, and manipulated, stating that he has no knowledge of their origin.

He reportedly attempted to meet the state Home Minister but was unable to do so. Rao has suggested that the footage could be around eight years old and may have been recorded using hidden cameras, while maintaining that he has “no clue” how such videos were created.

Government and Chief Minister’s stand

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that disciplinary action would be initiated and emphasized that no one is above the law, irrespective of rank or seniority. He also noted that he was informed of the issue only earlier that morning.

The government has made it clear that the suspension is procedural and intended to ensure a fair and unhindered inquiry.

Investigation and next steps

Former IPS officer Sanjay Sahay, speaking on the programme that discussed the issue, termed the episode extremely shameful but stressed the importance of forensic examination before drawing conclusions.

Investigators are expected to examine:

1. The authenticity of the videos

2. When and where they were recorded

3. Whether hidden cameras were used

4. The motive behind recording and circulating the footage

Further action will depend on the findings of the forensic and departmental inquiries.

Context of past controversy

The programme also briefly referred to an earlier controversy involving Rao’s stepdaughter, Kannada actress Sanjjanaa (Zanya) Rao, who was accused in a gold smuggling case. That matter went through an inquiry process, after which Rao returned to duty.

Panelists noted that while the previous case and the current allegations are separate, together they raise serious questions regarding the officer’s conduct and suitability for sensitive postings—subject, however, to what the ongoing investigation ultimately establishes.

Conclusion

At this stage, the case rests on the outcome of forensic verification and departmental inquiry. While the government has acted swiftly by suspending a senior officer, the final determination will depend on whether the videos are proven authentic and whether any misconduct is legally established.