Karnataka DGP Ramachandra Rao Suspended After Obscene Video Triggers Inquiry

The Karnataka government has suspended senior police officer K. Ramachandra Rao after an allegedly obscene video surfaced on social media, prompting swift administrative action and the launch of a formal inquiry.

According to the suspension order issued late on January 19, the officer’s conduct was described as unbecoming of a government servant and detrimental to the dignity of public office. The order stated that the alleged behaviour caused embarrassment to the state administration and violated service conduct norms.

The suspension has been enforced pending a detailed inquiry under the applicable All India Services rules. During this period, the officer has been barred from leaving headquarters without prior permission and will receive subsistence allowance as per regulations.

The development has reignited controversy around the senior officer, who had earlier come under scrutiny in a separate high-profile case involving alleged misconduct linked to a family member. The latest incident has intensified public and political scrutiny over accountability within senior levels of law enforcement.

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said the government acted immediately given the seriousness of the allegations and emphasised that seniority would not shield anyone from action. He added that further steps, including dismissal from service, could follow depending on the findings of the inquiry.

The Minister said the episode had caused embarrassment to the police department and the government, underlining the need for integrity and discipline among senior officials entrusted with upholding the law.

The inquiry is expected to examine the video evidence and related audio clips that surfaced online, after which the state government will decide on the next course of action.