The Karnataka government has suspended senior IPS officer K Ramachandra Rao (IPS:1993:KN), who was serving as Director General of Police, Civil Rights Enforcement, after allegations of obscene and inappropriate conduct surfaced against him.
According to a suspension order issued late on Monday (January 19, 2026), Rao was found to have acted in a manner unbecoming of a government servant, causing embarrassment to the state government. The order cites a prima facie violation of Rule 3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968.
The suspension has been enforced under Rule 3(1)(a) of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, pending a detailed inquiry into the matter. During the suspension period, Rao has been barred from leaving headquarters without prior permission and will be entitled to subsistence allowance as per applicable rules.
The action follows the circulation of a video allegedly showing Rao behaving inappropriately with a woman inside his office. Two audio recordings purportedly involving Rao were also released. However, Rao has denied the allegations, describing the video clips as “fabricated,” and has stated that he will initiate legal action.
Reacting to the development, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said the government acted promptly after the matter came to light. He confirmed that an inquiry has been ordered and asserted that further action, including dismissal, could be taken depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Notably, Rao had earlier come under scrutiny in a gold smuggling case involving his stepdaughter, Ranya Rao. She was arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle 14.2 kg of gold through Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. Allegations had emerged that police escorts were misused to bypass customs checks, raising questions over Rao’s possible role.
In connection with that case, the Karnataka government had placed Rao on compulsory leave on March 15 last year. He remained on leave for nearly five months before being reinstated in mid-August.
Also Read: Karnataka govt reinstates DGP K Ramachandra Rao, withdraws compulsory leave
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