Who Is Karnataka DGP Dr Ramachandra Rao Caught In The Controversy Over Alleged Viral Videos

The Karnataka police department has come under renewed scrutiny after videos circulating on social media claimed to show DGP Dr K. Ramachandra Rao engaging in inappropriate conduct inside his office at the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement. The authenticity of the clips has not been independently verified, and no official finding has been made so far.

The circulation of the footage has triggered public debate and political reactions, prompting senior officials to examine whether any workplace rules or codes of conduct may have been violated. According to reports, the matter has reached Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and senior Home Department officials, who are said to be assessing the situation.

The development comes months after Rao returned to active duty following a period of compulsory leave linked to an earlier administrative case.

Who Is Karnataka DGP Dr Ramachandra Rao? Career and Current Role

Dr K. Ramachandra Rao is a 1993-batch IPS officer currently serving as Director General of Police for the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement. He was reinstated and posted to the role in August 2025 after the state government withdrew an earlier leave order.

Over his career, Rao has held several senior positions, including Chairman and Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited. He was promoted to the rank of DGP in September 2023 and has previously served as ADGP of the Bengaluru Metropolitan Task Force and IGP of the Southern Range.

Details of the Current Allegations

The present controversy centres on unverified video clips circulating online, which claim to depict inappropriate conduct inside Rao's office. The videos have been widely shared since January 19, 2026, leading to criticism from opposition parties and concerns over institutional propriety.

Authorities have not confirmed the source, authenticity, or timing of the footage, and no official investigation findings have been released at this stage.

DGP Denies Allegations, Claims AI Fabrication

Dr Ramachandra Rao has categorically denied the allegations, stating that the videos are fabricated using artificial intelligence and intended to damage his reputation. He has said he plans to pursue legal action after consulting his advocate.

According to reports, Rao has also sought a meeting with senior government officials to present his case, while urging authorities to conduct a technical examination of the footage to establish its origin.

Past Controversies and Official Action

Rao was previously placed on compulsory leave in March 2025 following allegations linked to a gold smuggling case involving actor Ranya Rao, described as his stepdaughter. Investigating agencies alleged protocol violations at Bengaluru International Airport, claims Rao has consistently distanced himself from.

The leave order was later revoked, and Rao was reassigned to the Civil Rights Enforcement wing. Officials have maintained that earlier cases and the current controversy are separate matters.

At present, no misconduct has been officially established, and the government has not announced any disciplinary action. The Karnataka administration is under pressure to verify the AI fabrication claim and determine whether further inquiry is required.