Karnataka DGP K Ramachandra Rao Suspended Following Obscene Video Row

The Karnataka government has suspended senior IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement), following the circulation of an alleged “sleaze” video. The suspension, effective as of Monday night, January 19, 2026, comes after a 47-second clip purportedly showing the officer in a compromising position inside a government office went viral.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed the disciplinary action, stating that a detailed investigation has been ordered to maintain the “sanctity of the uniform.”

The Controversy: What the Video Shows

The viral footage, which appears to be a compilation of separate clips, allegedly captures the 1993-batch IPS officer engaging in intimate acts with a woman.

The Setting: The acts reportedly took place inside a police office chamber, with the Indian national flag and police emblem visible in the background.
The Conduct: Some clips show the officer in full uniform, while others show him in civilian attire.
Audio Leak: In addition to the video, several “obscene” audio clips of purported romantic telephonic conversations involving the officer have also surfaced online.

DGP’s Defense: “AI Fabrication”

Dr. K. Ramachandra Rao has vehemently denied the allegations, calling the videos “false, fabricated, and deepfakes.” * The “Belagavi” Claim: Rao suggested the footage might be from eight years ago during his posting in Belagavi but insisted it has been manipulated using modern technology to malign his reputation.

Legal Recourse: Rao attempted to meet Home Minister G Parameshwara to explain his side but was denied an audience. He has since stated he will consult lawyers to file a case against those spreading “morphed” content.+1

Political & Administrative Fallout

The incident has triggered a firestorm in Karnataka’s political circles:

The Government’s Stance: CM Siddaramaiah warned that seniority would not protect anyone from the law. Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar added that the state would act “mercilessly” if wrongdoing is proven.+1
Opposition Reaction: The BJP has termed the incident an “inexcusable crime” and a “blot on the department,” demanding a high-level probe into the misuse of government premises.
Past Scrutiny: This is not Rao’s first brush with controversy. His stepdaughter, Kannada actor Ranya Rao, is currently in jail in connection with a high-profile gold smuggling case from 2025, during which Rao was also briefly placed on compulsory leave.