A Karnataka Congress MLA’s niece, who was posted as a medical officer at a state-run Namma Clinic in Bagalkot, has been removed from duty after she was found pursuing her postgraduate studies at a private medical college simultaneously. An enquiry has also been launched against her over alleged dereliction of duty and unauthorised dual engagement.
The matter came to light after Dr Ankita Yaragal, the niece of Bagalkot MLA Umesh Meti, remained absent from the Namma Clinic in Bagalkot for several days, leaving the facility without a medical officer. She was drawing over Rs 70,000 for the posting, including for the days she was absent since March this year.
Subsequently, Bagalkot Zilla Panchayat CEO Gajanan Bale issued a notice to Dr Yaragal, which alleged that she continued to receive her salary or honorarium during this period while simultaneously pursuing her postgraduate studies.
Dr Yaragal was directed to appear for the first inquiry on Wednesday. However, she did not turn up despite having permission from the principal of S Nijalingappa Medical College to attend the proceedings.
Dr Ankita Yaragal has posted several photos and videos with former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, highlighting her proximity to senior Congress leadership. (Photo: Instagram/ankitaraj99)
She has now been directed to appear before the Zilla Panchayat CEO on September 18, along with relevant documents and a written explanation.
Meanwhile, District Health Officer Rajkumar Yaragal has reportedly removed Dr Yaragal from duty. Authorities have warned that the salary or honorarium paid during the unauthorised dual engagement could be recovered as per rules.
Disciplinary action could also be initiated over alleged professional misconduct, with the matter potentially being referred to the Karnataka Medical Council (KMC) and the National Medical Commission (NMC), officials said.
The notice also stated that failure to appear for the next enquiry could result in a decision without hearing her version.
Meanwhile, her father, Rajkumar Yaragal, who is a District Health Officer (DHO), claimed that his daughter had not drawn any salary since joining the MD course. The DHO was also allegedly involved in the posting of Dr Yaragal as the Medical Officer.
The allegations against Dr Yaragal are currently under official enquiry and authorities are yet to arrive at a final finding.
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Published On:
Sep 16, 2026 13:20 IST
