BENGALURU, Jan 20, 2026: Karnataka’s senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer K Ramachandra Rao has been placed under suspension by the state government after multiple unverified sleazy videos showing him in compromising situations with women circulated widely on social media on Monday. The move comes amid strong public outrage and political pressure as authorities seek to uphold accountability among senior public officials.
Rao, who holds the rank of Director General of Police (DGP) for the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement, was suspended late on Monday following a preliminary examination of the clips and related audio snippets. According to the government order, his alleged conduct was “unbecoming of a government servant” and has caused “embarrassment to the government,” prompting the immediate disciplinary action while an inquiry is set to proceed.
Viral footage and official reaction
The videos, reportedly filmed inside Rao’s office, show him in situations described as compromising with one or more women while in uniform. Some of the circulating clips are described as a compilation of separate recordings. Alongside the visual material, purported audio clips have also surfaced, further intensifying public scrutiny.
While the authenticity and context of the footage remain unverified by independent sources, the viral spread of the material drew sharp reactions from the state government. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that “no one is above the law,” affirming that disciplinary action would follow a thorough inquiry and that strict measures would be taken if wrongdoing is established.
In the suspension order, the government invoked provisions of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules and placed Rao under suspension pending investigation. During this period, he is entitled to a subsistence allowance, but is also restricted from leaving headquarters without written permission from the state government.
Rao’s denial and claims of fabrication
Rao has strongly denied the allegations against him, claiming the videos are “fabricated” and part of a systematic conspiracy to tarnish his reputation. He told reporters that the footage may have been manipulated using artificial intelligence and suggested that at least some clips might be old or taken out of context. Rao has said he will consult legal counsel and pursue action against those spreading the material.
The senior officer reiterated his rejection of the allegations outside the residence of the state home minister, where he had previously sought to address the controversy. He argued that the clips did not accurately reflect what happened and emphasized his intent to fight the narrative in court.
Political and public response
The controversy has triggered significant public debate and political reaction. Opposition leaders criticized the handling of the matter and called for a transparent and comprehensive investigation into both the videos and Rao’s conduct. The opposition has also demanded accountability from the ruling government, alleging laxity in vetting senior officials and urging that justice be served irrespective of rank.
Civil society groups have filed complaints with central authorities, including the Prime Minister’s Office and the Department of Personnel and Training, seeking formal action against Rao for alleged misuse of office, uniform and perceived disrespect to national symbols displayed in the clips. Meanwhile, government ministers asserted that disciplinary action will be taken without favor once the inquiry concludes.
Complicating factors and past controversies
This is not the first time that Rao’s career has faced scrutiny. In 2025, his family came under media attention when his stepdaughter, actress Ranya Rao, was arrested in a high-profile gold smuggling case that involved allegations of illegal imports. That episode had already placed Rao in the public spotlight and raised questions about ethical conduct within the senior ranks of the police.
Rao was previously sent on compulsory leave during the earlier controversy, but was later reinstated after a departmental probe cleared him of involvement in that matter. With the emergence of the current videos, however, public trust has been tested again, and critics argue that the police force must maintain higher standards of accountability.
Inquiry, next steps and broader implications
With Rao’s suspension now official, a detailed inquiry is expected to verify the origin and authenticity of the viral footage. Authorities will examine whether any conduct rules have been breached, and disciplinary as well as legal consequences could follow. The Karnataka government’s decision to suspend Rao at this stage underscores the seriousness with which it is treating allegations involving senior law enforcement officials.
As the investigation unfolds, public attention is likely to remain focused on both the accuracy of the viral content and the process through which accountability is enforced. The outcome may also influence broader discussions around digital misinformation, the use of artificial intelligence in generating misleading media, and safeguards for both public servants and the public interest in high-profile controversies.
