Karnataka DGP Dr Ramachandra Rao Suspended Over Alleged Intimate Viral Video With Woman Goes Viral

The Karnataka government has placed Director General of Police (DGP) Dr K. Ramachandra Rao under suspension with immediate effect, following the circulation of videos on social media that claim to depict inappropriate conduct inside his office. Authorities have clarified that the authenticity of the videos has not yet been independently verified and that an inquiry is underway.

The suspension order states that the government is prima facie satisfied that disciplinary action is required pending further examination of the matter. Officials said the decision was taken to ensure an impartial inquiry and to uphold institutional integrity.

The Karnataka police department confirmed that the viral clips are being scrutinised by competent authorities. An audio recording purportedly linked to the same incident has also surfaced online and is being examined as part of the process.

Officials have stressed that no conclusion regarding misconduct has been reached and that all aspects, including the origin, timing and authenticity of the digital material, will be assessed through due process.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah earlier stated that the government would act strictly if any wrongdoing is established.
"No one is above the law, irrespective of position or seniority," he said.

DGP Denies Allegations, Claims AI Fabrication

Dr Ramachandra Rao has categorically denied the allegations, asserting that the circulating videos are fabricated using artificial intelligence (AI) with the intention of damaging his reputation.

Speaking to reporters, Rao said,"I am shocked. The video is fabricated and false. I have no knowledge of it. I will place all facts before the Home Minister and pursue legal remedies."

He also claimed that the footage being circulated is old and dates back several years, adding that he would consult legal counsel and seek a technical examination of the clips to establish their authenticity.

According to the suspension order issued by the state government, Rao is accused of conduct "unbecoming of a government servant" and actions that may have caused embarrassment to the administration. The order specifies that the suspension will remain in force pending completion of the inquiry.

During this period, Rao is not permitted to leave headquarters without prior written approval from the government.

Political and Public Reactions

The development has drawn reactions across the political spectrum. Opposition leaders have demanded strict accountability, while several social activists have called for a transparent and time-bound probe.

Karnataka Minister for Women and Child Development Laxmi Hebbalkar said the government would not hesitate to act if misconduct is proven, while emphasising the importance of following due process.

Several television channels reported on the matter using blurred visuals, citing privacy considerations.

Who Is Karnataka DGP Dr K Ramachandra Rao?

Dr K. Ramachandra Rao is a 1993-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and was serving as Director General of Police at the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE) at the time of suspension. He is due to retire on superannuation in July.

Over his career, Rao has held multiple senior positions, including:

• Additional Director General of Police, Bengaluru Metropolitan Task Force
• Inspector General of Police, Southern Range
• Chairman and Managing Director, Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited

He was promoted to the rank of DGP in September 2023 and reinstated to his current post in August 2025 after an earlier period of compulsory leave related to a separate administrative matter.

Past Controversies

Rao has previously faced scrutiny in connection with cases that were administratively examined but did not result in convictions. One high-profile case involved his stepdaughter, actor Ranya Rao, who was arrested in March 2025 in a gold smuggling case at Bengaluru International Airport. Rao had publicly distanced himself from that matter, stating that the law should take its course.

Officials have clarified that past cases and the current inquiry are separate matters.

At present, no finding of guilt has been recorded against Dr Ramachandra Rao. The Karnataka government has stated that conclusions will be drawn only after verification of evidence and completion of the inquiry.

The case is being closely watched, particularly in the context of emerging concerns around digitally manipulated content and accountability mechanisms involving senior public officials.