Karnataka DGP Suspended Following Viral Sleaze Video Controversy
The Karnataka government suspended senior IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao on Monday night. This action came after unverified videos allegedly showing intimate acts went viral on social media platforms.
Government Orders Immediate Probe Into Allegations
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed the suspension while speaking in Badami. He stated that disciplinary action would follow a detailed inquiry into the matter.
"We will take appropriate action. No officer is above the law, regardless of their seniority," the Chief Minister declared. He revealed that he learned about the controversy earlier in the day and immediately ordered an investigation.
The suspension occurred just hours after the controversial videos began circulating widely online. Their rapid spread triggered significant political outrage across the state.
DGP Denies All Allegations, Calls Videos Fabricated
K Ramachandra Rao strongly rejected the allegations against him. He described the viral content as completely false and manufactured.
"These videos are fabricated and designed to damage my reputation and career," Rao told reporters. He suggested the footage might relate to his posting in Belagavi approximately eight years ago.
The suspended officer attempted to meet Home Minister G Parameshwara but could not secure an appointment. He announced plans to consult his legal counsel and pursue appropriate legal remedies.
Multiple Complaints Filed With State and Central Authorities
Social activists quickly filed formal complaints regarding the matter. Rajshekar Mulali, chief of the Ballari-based Anna Foundation, wrote to both the Prime Minister's Office and the Department of Personnel and Training.
His complaint sought legal action against Rao for alleged misuse of power and public office. It also mentioned disrespect shown toward national and state symbols visible in the background of the videos.
Another activist, Dinesh Kallahalli, filed a separate complaint with the chief secretary. He demanded Rao's suspension under the All India Services Rules of 1969.
Audio Clips Surface, Adding Complexity to Investigation
Late Monday evening, two audio clips also appeared on social media. These recordings purportedly featured conversations between a police officer and a woman.
Authorities have not yet verified the authenticity of these audio clips. Their circulation alongside the videos intensified public and political reactions to the developing scandal.
Opposition Parties Demand Independent Investigation
Senior BJP leader S Suresh Kumar called the alleged acts "an unforgivable crime" that damages police credibility. He specifically noted the visible national flag in the video background as particularly disrespectful.
Opposition leaders accused the state government of protecting the officer. They insisted on an independent probe conducted by neutral authorities rather than internal investigators.
Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar assured the public that the government would act decisively. "We will show no mercy if wrongdoing is proven, regardless of the officer's position," she stated firmly.
Past Controversies Resurface During Current Scandal
K Ramachandra Rao has faced previous scrutiny during his career. Opposition leaders referenced these past controversies while demanding swift action.
The suspended officer is also stepfather to Kannada actor Ranya Rao. She remains in judicial custody related to a prominent gold smuggling case currently underway.
State government officials confirmed that investigators will examine both video and audio materials. Further decisions will depend entirely on the inquiry's findings regarding authenticity and content.
The home department has been instructed to prepare a comprehensive report about the entire situation. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated he lacked specific details and directed questions to the Chief Minister and Home Minister.
