The Karnataka government on Tuesday suspended senior IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, a DGP-rank official, after a controversial video allegedly showing him in intimate moments with different women inside his office surfaced on social media. The video triggered widespread outrage and raised serious questions about conduct within the police establishment.
The matter reached Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s office, following which a report was sought from the concerned department. After reviewing the situation and amid mounting political and public pressure, the state government decided to place the senior officer under suspension.
Sources said the Chief Minister expressed strong displeasure after viewing the footage and sought an explanation on how such an incident could occur within official premises. The controversy also gave rise to sharp reactions from opposition parties, who demanded a thorough inquiry and strict disciplinary action.
The viral video, which reportedly shows Rao hugging and kissing different women inside his official chamber during office hours, is said to have been secretly recorded on multiple occasions. The visuals show women visiting the office in different outfits, with the officer allegedly engaging with them while in uniform.
Ramachandra Rao, who is also the father of gold smuggling accused Ranya Rao, has denied all allegations. Calling the video “fabricated and morphed,” he claimed that he was being deliberately targeted. “This is completely false and fabricated. An inquiry must be conducted to find out the truth,” Rao said, adding that he has consulted his legal counsel and will take appropriate action.
Despite meeting the Home Minister to discuss the issue, the suspension order was issued, with the government indicating that further investigation into the matter would follow.
