Karnataka DGP Faces Immediate Suspension Following Viral Video Controversy
The Karnataka government took decisive action on Monday, January 19. It suspended Director General of Police K Ramachandra Rao with immediate effect. The state administration issued a formal order to enforce this suspension.
Government Cites Unbecoming Conduct
The government order clearly stated the reasons for this drastic step. It mentioned conduct unbecoming of a government servant. The administration also noted that Rao's actions caused significant embarrassment to the state government.
This suspension follows the circulation of a controversial video on social media platforms. The viral footage allegedly shows Rao in a compromising position with women. The video reportedly captured inappropriate behavior inside his office while he wore his official uniform.
Rao responded strongly to these allegations. He completely rejected the viral videos. The senior police officer termed them fabricated and false content designed to damage his reputation.
Examination of the Controversial Footage
The Karnataka government examined the matter thoroughly before taking action. Officials reviewed videos and news reports broadcast on public channels and media platforms. Their examination concluded that Rao acted in an obscene manner.
The government found this behavior violated Rule-3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules from 1968. Authorities expressed prima facie satisfaction about the necessity of immediate suspension pending a full inquiry.
Restrictions During Suspension Period
The suspension order imposes specific restrictions on Rao's movements. During this suspension period, he cannot leave his headquarters without written permission from the State Government. This condition applies under all circumstances.
Rao will receive subsistence allowance during his suspension. This allowance follows Rule-4 of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules from 1969.
Background of the Suspended Officer
K Ramachandra Rao held the position of DGP-rank officer heading the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement. He received promotion to DGP in September 2023 and assumed office the following October.
Before this appointment, Rao served as Chairman and Managing Director of the Karnataka State Police Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited. His career includes various senior positions within the state police force.
Past Controversies Resurface
This is not the first controversy surrounding Rao's career. His earlier stint as Inspector General of Police for the Southern Range also faced scrutiny.
In 2014, a significant cash seizure occurred near Mysuru's Yelwal area. While officials claimed the seized amount was twenty lakh rupees, the accused Kerala-based merchants insisted it was approximately 2.27 crore rupees. Rao was present during this controversial seizure operation.
The officer denied all allegations related to this incident. However, authorities transferred him soon after these allegations surfaced.
Further allegations suggested collusion with a businessman. A senior police officer commented on this matter, noting that the CID investigation identified significant lapses on Rao's part. The investigation reportedly found that Rao and a deputy superintendent failed to act when informed about police involvement in a robbery case.
Rao consistently denied any wrongdoing in these past incidents. Despite these controversies, he eventually rose to become the state's top police officer.
Family Connection to Gold Smuggling Case
Ramachandra Rao maintains a family connection to another high-profile case. He is the stepfather of Kannada actress Harshavardhini Ranya, also known as Ranya Rao.
Ranya faces accusations of orchestrating illegal gold imports worth over 12.56 crore rupees from Dubai to India. Two other individuals, businessman Tarun Raju and jewellery dealer Sahil Jain, are also implicated in this smuggling case.
The authenticity of the viral video showing Rao's alleged misconduct remains unverified by some media outlets. However, the Karnataka government has proceeded with suspension based on its assessment of the available evidence.
