Karnataka DGP Faces Investigation Over Viral Video Allegations
A controversial video allegedly showing Karnataka Director General of Police (Civil Rights Enforcement) K Ramachandra Rao in a compromising situation with women went viral on social media on Monday. This development has placed the senior police officer under intense public scrutiny and triggered an official investigation.
DGP Denies Allegations, Calls Video Fabricated
K Ramachandra Rao firmly rejected the viral video content, labeling it as completely false and manufactured. He expressed shock and confusion about the video's origin.
"I am shocked. It is all fabricated, a lie. The video is completely false. I have no idea about it," Rao told reporters outside Home Minister G Parameshwara's residence.
The DGP attempted to meet with Home Minister Parameshwara to clarify his position, but the meeting did not materialize. When questioned about the video's timing, Rao mentioned it might relate to events from eight years ago during his posting in Belagavi.
"I am also thinking how and when it happened and who has done it. In this era anything can happen," he added, indicating he would consult his legal counsel about further steps.
Chief Minister Promises Strict Action
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded swiftly to the controversy, warning of disciplinary measures if the allegations prove true.
"I got to know about it in the morning. We will initiate disciplinary action against him. No one is above law, notwithstanding how senior the police officer is," Siddaramaiah stated clearly.
The Chief Minister confirmed that authorities would investigate the matter thoroughly before taking any final decision.
Political Reactions and Public Demands
The video scandal has drawn strong reactions from across the political spectrum and civil society.
Karnataka Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar emphasized that the government would act decisively if wrongdoing is established.
"Being the Woman and Child Development Minister I can tell you that we will take action mercilessly, irrespective of the seniority he holds," Hebbalkar declared to reporters.
Senior BJP MLA and former minister S Suresh Kumar criticized Rao's alleged actions severely, calling them "an inexcusable crime" that damages public trust in the police department.
Social activist Dinesh Kallahalli went further, demanding Rao's immediate suspension pending investigation.
Family Connection to Previous Controversy
The controversy gains additional complexity from Rao's family connections. He is the stepfather of Harshavardhini Ranya, also known as Ranya Rao, who is currently imprisoned in Bengaluru Central Jail following her arrest in a high-profile gold smuggling case.
This background adds another layer to the ongoing scrutiny of the senior police officer's conduct and reputation.
As investigations proceed, all eyes remain on how Karnataka authorities handle this sensitive case involving one of the state's top police officials.
