According to the suspension order, videos and related news reports broadcast across digital platforms appeared to show the DGP acting in an obscene manner inside his office premises. The government said it examined the available material and concluded that disciplinary action was warranted.
The order clarified that during the suspension period, Rao will receive subsistence allowance as per the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. He has also been directed not to leave headquarters without prior written permission from the state government.
Viral Video Triggers Swift Action
The controversy erupted after multiple video clips allegedly showing Rao in a compromising position with a woman inside his office went viral on social media. Reports suggest the footage appears to be a compilation of clips recorded on different occasions, with varying attire and settings, raising questions about when and how the videos were recorded.
Hindustan Times and other media outlets noted that the authenticity of the videos could not be independently verified. Nevertheless, the widespread circulation prompted immediate administrative and political response.
Rao Denies Allegations, Claims Video Is Fake
K Ramachandra Rao has strongly denied all allegations linked to the viral video. Speaking to reporters, he claimed the footage was fabricated and possibly generated using artificial intelligence as part of a conspiracy to tarnish his reputation.
“I am shocked. I have no idea how or when this video was recorded. In this era, anything can be created. The video is completely false and fabricated,” Rao said, adding that one of the clips was allegedly from nearly eight years ago when he was posted in Belagavi.
The suspended officer said he intends to consult his legal counsel and explain his position to the authorities. His attempt to meet Home Minister G Parameshwara on Monday, however, did not materialise.
Political Reactions and Public Outrage
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said the government acted without hesitation despite Rao’s seniority. “No one is above the law. Depending on the outcome of the inquiry, further action, including dismissal, can be taken,” he said.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah echoed the sentiment, stating that disciplinary action would follow if misconduct is established, irrespective of rank. He confirmed that the inquiry would examine all aspects of the case.
Opposition parties seized upon the controversy, accusing the Congress-led government of moral failure and administrative lapses. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla termed the incident “embarrassing” and linked it to broader concerns over women’s safety and law and order in the state.
Who Is K Ramachandra Rao?
Rao is a 1993-batch IPS officer of the Karnataka cadre who was promoted to the rank of DGP in September 2023. He assumed charge in October that year and previously served as Chairman and Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation.
He has also been in the spotlight earlier due to the gold smuggling case involving his stepdaughter, actor Ranya Rao, following which he was placed on compulsory leave before being reinstated in August last year.
As the inquiry proceeds, the case is expected to have far-reaching implications for police accountability and public trust in law enforcement institutions.