Bengaluru: A medical officer working at a Namma Clinic in Karnataka’s Bagalkot district has come under scrutiny for allegedly drawing a monthly salary of more than ₹70,000 while pursuing a postgraduate medical course at a private medical college.
Dr Ankita Yaragal, who is reportedly the niece of Bagalkot MLA Umesh Meti, is facing an inquiry over alleged dereliction of duty and unauthorised dual engagement.
Doctor Asked to Appear for Fresh Inquiry
Dr Yaragal reportedly failed to appear before an inquiry conducted by Bagalkot Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Gajanan Bale.
Following her absence, the CEO issued a notice directing her to appear for the next inquiry scheduled for September 18 at 10 am at Room No. 11 of the Zilla Panchayat office.
According to the notice, Dr Yaragal allegedly remained absent from the Namma Clinic at Wambay Colony from March 3 until September. Authorities stated that her absence left the clinic without a medical officer and caused inconvenience to residents seeking medical services.
Alleged Simultaneous Employment and Medical Studies
Authorities have alleged that Dr Yaragal was pursuing postgraduate medical studies at a private college while continuing to receive her salary as a medical officer associated with the government-linked Namma Clinic.
The notice reportedly treats the matter as a serious issue involving the alleged violation of rules applicable to registered medical practitioners working in public health institutions in Karnataka.
It also refers to a possible violation of the professional ethical code of the National Medical Commission (NMC).
Disciplinary Action and Salary Recovery Possible
The CEO has warned that disciplinary proceedings could be initiated against Dr Yaragal for alleged professional misconduct.
The matter may also be referred to the Karnataka Medical Council (KMC) and the National Medical Commission for further action, depending on the findings of the inquiry.
Authorities have further warned that the salary or honorarium paid to her during the period of alleged unauthorised dual engagement could be recovered in accordance with applicable rules.
Permission from Medical College Under Scrutiny
The notice reportedly states that the principal of SN Medical College had granted Dr Yaragal permission. However, authorities have maintained that she remained absent from her assigned duties at the Namma Clinic.
The notice warns that failure to attend the next inquiry could lead to an ex parte decision, meaning the authorities may proceed and decide the matter in her absence based on the available records and evidence.
Meanwhile, District Health Officer Rajkumar Yaragal has reportedly removed Dr Yaragal from duty.
The allegations remain subject to the outcome of the inquiry, and no final finding of misconduct has been established at this stage.
