Controversy Erupts as Karnataka DGP K. Ramachandra Rao Suspended Over Alleged Misconduct

Karnataka's DGP K. Ramachandra Rao has been suspended after alleged intimate videos surfaced, prompting an inquiry by the state government. The Chief Minister emphasized that no officer is above the law, indicating potential disciplinary actions. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the conduct of senior officials within the police department. As the investigation unfolds, Rao maintains that the videos are manipulated and insists that no misconduct occurred. The situation has drawn considerable media attention and public scrutiny.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 20, 2026, 16:08 IST

Karnataka DGP Suspended Amid Scandal

In Bengaluru, the Congress-led administration has suspended DGP K. Ramachandra Rao following the emergence of alleged intimate videos featuring him with a woman in his office. The senior Indian Police Service officer has been instructed to remain at headquarters and not leave without state government approval.

The suspension order highlights that the videos and related news reports indicate Rao's inappropriate behavior, which is deemed unbecoming of a government official and embarrassing for the administration. The state government has determined that his actions violate the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, warranting immediate suspension pending further investigation.

The directive states, "Given the circumstances outlined, DGP Ramachandra Rao is hereby suspended with immediate effect, pending inquiry. During this suspension, he must not leave headquarters without written consent from the state government."

This incident has caused significant embarrassment for the Karnataka Police, as videos allegedly depicting Rao's inappropriate conduct while in uniform surfaced online. The clips show him engaging in questionable behavior with a woman in his official office.

In one video, he is seen kissing the woman while seated in his uniform, and in another, he appears in a suit, again engaging in similar conduct in front of the Indian flag and the police emblem. The woman is also seen participating in the interaction.

In response to the allegations, DGP Rao claimed that the videos are "manipulated" and insisted that no such incident occurred. He stated, "I will consult with my lawyer and decide on the next steps regarding this matter."

Previously, in March 2025, the Karnataka government had placed Rao on compulsory leave due to a gold smuggling investigation, but he was reinstated recently. He is accused of collaborating with Ranya Rao, who was arrested for gold smuggling and misusing her stepfather's name to evade security protocols.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the allegations against DGP Rao, asserting that no officer is above the law and that disciplinary measures would be taken if necessary. He confirmed that an inquiry would be conducted, and appropriate actions would follow based on the findings.