Karnataka Govt Suspends DGP After Obscene Video Sparks Outrage

Bengaluru, Jan 20: The Karnataka government on Monday placed DGP (Civil Rights Enforcement) K Ramachandra Rao under immediate suspension, citing conduct unbecoming of a government servant and actions that caused embarrassment to the state administration.

The decision followed the circulation of videos on television channels and social media platforms purportedly showing the senior IPS officer in a compromising position with women. The footage went viral, drawing widespread attention and criticism.

Rao, however, rejected the allegations and dismissed the videos as “fabricated and false,” denying any wrongdoing.

In an official order issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), the government said the videos and accompanying media reports depicted Rao acting in an “obscene manner,” warranting the initiation of disciplinary proceedings.

“Vide videos and news reports widely broadcast on public news channels and media platforms, it is observed that Dr K Ramachandra Rao has acted in an obscene manner which is unbecoming of a Government Servant and also causing embarrassment to the Government,” the order stated.

After examining the matter, the state government concluded that the officer’s conduct amounted to a violation of Rule 3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, the order added.

The government said it was prima facie satisfied that Rao’s suspension was necessary with immediate effect, pending a formal inquiry into the allegations.

During the suspension period, Rao will be entitled to subsistence allowance in accordance with Rule 4 of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. The order also restricts his movement, stating that he shall not leave headquarters without prior written permission from the state government.

Rao is the stepfather of Kannada actress Harshavardhini Ranya, also known as Ranya Rao, who has been accused of orchestrating the illegal import of gold worth over Rs 12.56 crore from Dubai along with businessman Tarun Raju and jewellery dealer Sahil Jain.

Ranya was apprehended at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on March 3, 2025, allegedly while smuggling 14.8 kilograms of gold from Dubai.

Subsequent investigations revealed that she had undertaken 45 solo trips to Dubai between 2023 and 2025, raising suspicions of her involvement in a larger smuggling network.

Ranya is currently lodged in judicial custody at the Bengaluru Central Jail. (Agencies)