Karnataka DGP Suspended Amid Controversial Video Allegations

Suspension of Karnataka DGP

On Monday, the Karnataka government took the decision to suspend K Ramachandra Rao, the Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement), following the emergence of videos that allegedly depict him inappropriately interacting with women in his office. This news was reported by a local media outlet.

The circulated videos reportedly show Rao engaging in affectionate gestures, such as hugging and kissing women while in uniform during work hours, according to another media source.

In the official suspension notice, Under Secretary KV Ashoka stated that Rao's behavior was deemed 'obscene and unbecoming of a public servant,' which brought embarrassment to the government. The notice indicated that the government believed he had breached service regulations, warranting his suspension pending an investigation.

As part of the suspension, the officer has been instructed not to leave the headquarters without prior approval from the government. He will receive a subsistence allowance in accordance with the All India Service Rules, as reported.

Rao has asserted that the video is manipulated and originates from eight years ago when he was stationed in Belagavi. He mentioned plans to consult legal experts before deciding on further actions regarding the situation.

This is not the first time Rao has faced scrutiny; he was previously involved in a controversy last year when his stepdaughter, Kannada actress Ranya Rao, was arrested on gold smuggling charges. Following accusations of assisting her in avoiding security checks at Bengaluru airport, he was placed on compulsory leave.

Rao was reinstated and appointed as the Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement) in August.