Karnataka DGP suspended as shocking video sparks outrage
The late-night order said Rao’s obscene conduct violated service norms and brought serious embarrassment to the government.
Ramachandra Rao, Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement), just hours after a video allegedly showing him behaving inappropriately went viral on social media, triggering widespread outrage and embarrassment for the state administration.
In an order issued late on Monday, January 19, 2026, the government said Mr. Rao had acted in an obscene manner that was “unbecoming of a government servant” and had brought disrepute to the government. The swift action underscored the seriousness with which the state viewed the allegations against one of its highest-ranking police officers.
The suspension order cited a prima facie violation of Rule 3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, which lays down standards of integrity, propriety and conduct expected of senior civil servants. The suspension was enforced under Rule 3(1)(a) of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, pending a detailed inquiry into the incident.
As per the order, Mr. Rao has been barred from leaving headquarters without prior government approval. He will be entitled to subsistence allowance during the period of suspension, in accordance with service rules.
The controversy erupted after a video surfaced online allegedly showing Mr. The footage spread rapidly, prompting sharp reactions from political parties, civil society groups and members of the public, many of whom expressed shock that a senior officer entrusted with enforcing the law could be accused of such conduct.
Adding to the controversy, two audio recordings were also released in which Mr. Rao was allegedly heard chatting with a woman. The combined impact of the visuals and audio clips intensified scrutiny on the officer and placed the government under pressure to act decisively.
This is not the first time Mr. Rao has found himself at the centre of controversy. He was previously under scrutiny in connection with a gold smuggling case involving his stepdaughter, a matter that had already raised uncomfortable questions for the state police leadership. The latest episode has further dented his public image and credibility.
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said the government acted without delay after the video came to light. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, he stressed that suspension was an immediate and necessary step given the gravity of the allegations.
“We have suspended him. An inquiry will follow. We will take next action accordingly,” Mr. Parameshwara said, making it clear that the suspension was only the first step in the process.
The minister also indicated that the government was not ruling out harsher punishment, including dismissal from service, depending on the findings of the inquiry. “He can be dismissed as well,” Mr. Parameshwara said, responding to questions about the possible consequences for the officer.
Addressing reports that Mr. Rao had sought to meet him following the controversy, the home minister said he had deliberately avoided any interaction. Hence, I didn’t meet him,” he said, signalling the government’s intent to keep the inquiry process free from any perception of influence.
The opposition BJP has demanded stricter action, including the arrest of the suspended officer. While stopping short of committing to immediate arrest, Mr. Parameshwara said the government had not closed the door on tougher measures. “The future course of action will be different,” he said, adding that seniority would not shield anyone from accountability.
The episode has sparked a broader debate on conduct, accountability and ethics within the higher echelons of the police force. For many, the case is a stark reminder that public trust in institutions hinges not only on enforcement of the law, but also on the personal integrity of those entrusted with power.
As the inquiry gets underway, all eyes will be on how swiftly and transparently the government handles the case. For now, the suspension of a top police officer sends a strong message that allegations of serious misconduct will not be brushed aside, regardless of rank or position.