Karnataka Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement), K Ramachandra Rao, has been suspended following the circulation of alleged compromising videos on social media. The videos purportedly show Rao in intimate positions with women. The incident has sparked outrage and prompted the Karnataka government to order an inquiry into the matter.

The videos, which went viral on Monday, January 19, 2026, appear to have been filmed inside Rao's chamber and compiled from multiple clips. The undated 47-second clip seems to have been filmed using a mobile phone. The videos allegedly depict Rao kissing and cuddling with women while in uniform.

Rao has vehemently denied the allegations, calling the videos "fabricated and false". He stated that he was shocked by the emergence of the videos and would consult with his advocate to file a case against those spreading the false news. When questioned about the location of the video, Rao alluded to serving in Belagavi eight years prior but did not clarify any connection between his tenure there and the videos.

Following the circulation of the videos, Rao attempted to meet with Home Minister G Parameshwara but was unsuccessful. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has warned of strict action if Rao is found guilty, emphasizing that no one is above the law. The Chief Minister has directed an inquiry into the matter. Karnataka Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar stated that the government would act mercilessly if wrongdoing is discovered.

The suspension order, issued by the Karnataka government, states that Rao's conduct appears to violate Rule 3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, which mandates integrity, devotion to duty, and conduct befitting a public servant. The government invoked Rule 3(1)(a) of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, stating that it would be inappropriate for Rao to continue in office while a detailed inquiry is conducted.

During his suspension, Rao will receive a subsistence allowance as per Rule 4 of the AIS (D&A) Rules and is prohibited from leaving headquarters without prior authorization. The suspension will remain in effect until further notice, and further action will depend on the outcome of the departmental inquiry.

This is not the first time Rao has been embroiled in controversy. In 2025, his stepdaughter, actress Ranya Rao, was arrested in connection with a gold smuggling case.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has criticized Rao's actions, with senior MLA S Suresh Kumar calling it "an inexcusable crime" that has tarnished the police department's image. Social activist Dinesh Kallahalli had demanded Rao's suspension.

The controversy has caused embarrassment for the home department and sparked internal resentment. The government has emphasized that the suspension is not punitive and that further action will depend on the inquiry's findings. The investigation is underway and will determine the future course of action in this case.