Karnataka DGP suspended after obscene video row; CM orders probe

Bengaluru saw fresh controversy on Monday after the Karnataka government suspended senior IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao with immediate effect. The move followed the circulation of videos that allegedly showed Rao acting in an obscene manner. Television channels and digital platforms amplified the clips through the day. Consequently, the government stepped in and barred him pending inquiry.

In its order, the state cited serious misconduct. Officials said Rao’s behaviour violated service norms and damaged the government’s image. Therefore, authorities invoked disciplinary provisions under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968. The order stressed that a government servant must uphold dignity at all times. As a result, Rao now remains under suspension while the probe moves forward.

However, Rao strongly rejected the allegations. He called the video fake and said he had no role in its creation or circulation. He expressed shock and described the clip as fabricated. Moreover, he questioned how the footage surfaced and who could be behind it. He insisted that someone attempted to malign his reputation.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the issue publicly. He confirmed that the government would conduct a thorough investigation. He made it clear that Rao’s seniority would not shield him. “No one stands above the law,” the Chief Minister said. He added that he learned about the matter in the morning and immediately ordered action. Thus, the administration acted swiftly to contain the fallout.

Soon after the controversy erupted, Rao tried to meet Home Minister G Parameshwara. Yet the meeting did not take place. Later, Rao spoke to reporters outside the minister’s residence. He again denied all charges and said he would consult his lawyer. He stated that he planned to present his side formally and highlight the spread of false information. In addition, he warned that technology today allows easy manipulation of visuals.

Notably, Rao’s suspension revived memories of past turbulence in his career. The government had reinstated him in August last year. At that time, officials appointed him as DGP of the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement. Earlier, the state had sent him on compulsory leave in March. The administration later withdrew that order and restored him to service.

The March action followed the arrest of his stepdaughter, actor Ranya Rao, in a major gold smuggling case. On March 3, DRI officers detained her at Kempegowda International Airport after her arrival from Dubai. Authorities seized gold bars worth ₹12.56 crore from her. The next day, investigators recovered gold jewellery worth ₹2.06 crore and cash of ₹2.67 crore from her Bengaluru residence. Furthermore, agencies accused her of misusing police escorts to bypass Customs checks. The case drew national attention and triggered embarrassment for the police department.

Now, the fresh scandal has again placed Rao at the centre of controversy. The government’s suspension order signals a zero-tolerance stance toward alleged misconduct by top officials. At the same time, Rao continues to maintain innocence and claims that malicious actors targeted him. As the inquiry begins, political circles and police ranks await clarity. The coming days will determine whether the allegations hold ground or collapse under scrutiny.