The Karnataka government on Monday suspended senior IPS officer and Director General of Police of the Civil Rights Enforcement Directorate, K Ramachandra Rao, after an alleged video showing him in a compromising position went viral on social media. The development triggered a major political and administrative controversy in the state.
The footage, reportedly recorded inside Rao&rsquo;s office, is said to be a compilation of multiple clips from different occasions. While its authenticity has not been independently verified, the circulation of the video prompted swift government action, citing conduct unbecoming of a senior police officer.
Rao has denied all allegations, stating that the video is fabricated and possibly generated using artificial intelligence. He claimed he had no knowledge of the video&rsquo;s origin and maintained that the accusations against him were false and baseless.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah ordered an inquiry into the matter, asserting that no official, regardless of rank or seniority, is above the law. Following this, the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms issued a suspension order, stating that Rao&rsquo;s alleged conduct violated Rule 3 of the All India Services Conduct Rules, 1968, and caused embarrassment to the government.
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said the suspension was necessary to ensure accountability and transparency. He added that further action, including dismissal, would be considered based on the outcome of the inquiry.
The controversy comes months after Rao was reinstated in August last year, after the state government withdrew a compulsory leave order imposed following the arrest of his stepdaughter, actor Ranya Rao, in a high-profile gold smuggling case involving seizures worth over ₹17 crore.

State orders inquiry after alleged office video sparks political backlash

Karnataka DGP Rao Suspended Over Viral Video

State orders inquiry after alleged office video sparks political backlash

January 20, 2026 | 10:02 IST