DGP Ramachandra Rao video controversy: Karnataka govt orders probe after alleged inappropriate clip surfaces

A major political and administrative storm has erupted in Karnataka after a video allegedly showing DGP Ramachandra Rao in a compromising position with women surfaced on social media on Monday. The video, which quickly went viral, has triggered strong reactions from the state government, opposition leaders, and civil society.

While the authenticity of the clip is yet to be verified, the controversy has placed the senior IPS officer under intense public and political scrutiny.

DGP Ramachandra Rao Denies Allegations, Calls Video ‘Fabricated’

Responding to the uproar, DGP Ramachandra Rao, who is currently serving as the Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement), dismissed the video as “false and fabricated.”


“I am shocked. It is completely fake. I have no idea how such a video came into circulation,” Rao told reporters. He added that in today’s digital age, “anything can be morphed or created.”

When asked whether the video was old, Rao said it could be from nearly eight years ago when he was posted in Belagavi, but maintained that he had no knowledge of such an incident.

CM Siddaramaiah Orders Probe, Warns of Action

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the matter would be thoroughly investigated and made it clear that no one would be spared if found guilty.

“We will get it investigated. Disciplinary action will be taken if the allegations are proven. No one is above the law, regardless of how senior the officer is,” the Chief Minister said.

Rao reportedly attempted to meet Home Minister G Parameshwara to clarify his position, but the meeting did not take place.

Link to Gold Smuggling Case Adds to Controversy

The controversy has drawn further attention as DGP Ramachandra Rao is the stepfather of Harshavardhini Ranya alias Ranya Rao, who is currently lodged in Bengaluru Central Jail in connection with a high-profile gold smuggling case.

Opposition leaders have alleged that earlier too, questions were raised over the misuse of the officer’s name during the smuggling probe, though the government had then placed him on compulsory leave.

Political Reactions and Demand for Action

Karnataka Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar, who holds the Women and Child Development portfolio, said strict action would be taken if wrongdoing is established.

“Being a woman minister, I can say this clearly, action will be taken mercilessly if anyone is found guilty, irrespective of their position,” she said.

Senior BJP leader and former minister S Suresh Kumar termed the incident “disgraceful” and said it had tarnished the image of the police force.

“The act has brought shame to the entire department. When such incidents involve senior officers, it erodes public trust,” he said.

Social activist Dinesh Kallahalli also demanded the immediate suspension of DGP Ramachandra Rao pending inquiry.

What Happens Next?

With the Karnataka government confirming an investigation and multiple political voices demanding accountability, the coming days will be crucial for DGP Ramachandra Rao.

Authorities are expected to verify the authenticity of the video and determine whether disciplinary or legal action is warranted.

For now, the case has sparked a wider debate on accountability, ethics in public service, and the misuse of digital platforms to spread unverified content.

Inputs from PTI