Karnataka MLA’s Niece Removed From Medical Officer Post Amid Dual Engagement Probe
A medical officer working at the government’s Namma Clinic in Bagalkot, Karnataka has been taken off the roll due to an allegation that he was pursuing postgraduate medical studies while holding his government job.
Dr Ankita Yaragal, niece of Bagalkot , is being investigated by officials for alleged dual engagement and unauthorised absence from the workplace.
Doctor Allegedly Absent From Namma Clinic
The matter came to light after Yaragal was reportedly found absent from the Namma Clinic for several days, leaving the facility without a medical officer.
The situation surfaced when it was reported Yaragal was missing from the Namma Clinic for several days, without a medical officer.
She was allegedly getting salary/honorarium of more than ₹70,000 from the government posting even during the period she had been studying post-graduation course at a private medical college.
The CEO of Bagalkot Zilla Panchayat, Gajanan Bale, then gave notice to the doctor for explanation about her absence and alleged simultaneous engagement.
First Inquiry Missed
Yaragal was asked to appear for an inquiry on Wednesday. However, she did not attend the proceedings despite reportedly having permission from the principal of S Nijalingappa Medical College to participate in the inquiry.
Authorities have now directed her to appear before the Zilla Panchayat CEO on September 18 and submit relevant documents along with a written explanation.
Officials have indicated that failure to appear could result in the authorities proceeding with the matter without hearing her side.
Salary Recovery, Disciplinary Action Possible
District Health Officer Rajkumar Yaragal has reportedly removed Ankita Yaragal from her medical officer position.
Authorities are also examining whether any salary or honorarium paid during the alleged period of unauthorised dual engagement should be recovered under applicable rules.
Depending on the findings of the inquiry, further disciplinary proceedings could follow. Officials have also indicated that the matter may be referred to the Karnataka Medical Council (KMC) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) if professional misconduct is established.
Father Denies Salary Allegation
Ankita Yaragal’s father, Rajkumar Yaragal, who serves as a District Health Officer, has disputed the allegation that his daughter continued drawing a salary while pursuing her MD course.
He claimed that she had not received any salary since joining the postgraduate programme.
The role of the DHO in her appointment to the medical officer position is also being examined in the context of the controversy.
Inquiry Yet To Establish Final Findings
The allegations against Dr Ankita Yaragal remain under official investigation. Authorities have not yet issued a final finding on whether she violated service rules or engaged in any professional misconduct.
The upcoming September 18 inquiry is expected to provide her an opportunity to submit documents and explain her position before the authorities take any further decision.