A major controversy has shaken Karnataka’s police administration after the state government suspended senior IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao following the circulation of disturbing videos on social media. The clips, which quickly went viral, allegedly show the Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement) in an inappropriate and compromising situation with women inside his office during working hours, including kissing.
The Karnataka government acted swiftly after the videos triggered public outrage and intense media scrutiny. The suspension order was issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), stating that the officer’s conduct had brought serious embarrassment to the government and the police force.
According to the suspension order, widely shared videos and media reports indicate that the 1993-batch IPS officer behaved in a manner that is “obscene” and completely against the dignity expected from a senior government servant. The government said it was prima facie convinced that immediate action was necessary and placed Rao under suspension pending a detailed inquiry.
The order also makes it clear that during the suspension period, Rao is not allowed to leave the headquarters without prior written permission from the state government, tightening restrictions as investigations begin.
Soon after the videos surfaced, Rao publicly denied all allegations, claiming the clips were fabricated and false. He said he was shocked by the accusations and insisted that he had no knowledge of how such videos came into existence. In a dramatic move, the suspended officer went to the residence of Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara to explain his side. However, the Home Minister reportedly did not meet him.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reacted strongly to the controversy, assuring the public that the government would not shield anyone. He said strict disciplinary action would be taken if the allegations are proven true, underlining that no officer, regardless of rank, is above accountability.
The controversy has also revived attention on Rao’s past connections. He is the stepfather of Kannada actress Ranya Rao, who was arrested last year in a high-profile gold smuggling case. Following her arrest, Rao had earlier been sent on compulsory leave, which was later withdrawn by the government. He was subsequently appointed as the DGP of the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement.
