In a swift administrative reshuffle, the Karnataka government has entrusted senior IPS officer Umesh Kumar of the 1995 batch with the additional charge of Director General of Police for the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE). The order, issued on Wednesday, comes in the wake of the suspension of former DCRE DGP K. Ramachandra Rao amid a shocking obscenity video scandal.
Umesh Kumar, currently serving as DGP Recruitment in Bengaluru, has been directed to take immediate charge of DCRE duties until further orders. This move aims to restore stability in the sensitive department responsible for probing atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Tribes under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, safeguarding civil rights, and addressing related grievances.
The controversy erupted when a viral video surfaced on January 19, allegedly showing Rao engaging in indecent behavior with women in his office. The footage spread rapidly across social media, prompting the government to suspend him without delay. The suspension order cited his conduct as unbecoming of a government servant, embarrassing the state administration and violating Rule 3 of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968.
Karnataka’s decision underscores its commitment to upholding integrity in public service, particularly in agencies protecting vulnerable communities. DCRE plays a pivotal role in preventing atrocities and ensuring justice for marginalized groups, making leadership transitions critical.
Umesh Kumar brings a wealth of experience to the role. A former Additional DGP of Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP), he was promoted to DGP Recruitment in September 2025. Known for his administrative acumen, Kumar is expected to steer DCRE through this turbulent period effectively.
The notification, issued by Under Secretary KV Ashok of the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (Services-4), bears the Governor’s name and was released from Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru. Copies have been dispatched to key offices including the Compiler of Karnataka Gazette, Principal Accountant General, Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi, Chief Minister’s Office, Home Department, and Police Headquarters.
This development highlights ongoing efforts to maintain accountability in Karnataka’s law enforcement, signaling zero tolerance for misconduct while prioritizing operational continuity in vital civil rights protection.