Bagalkot medical officer under investigation for alleged salary fraud

Dr. Ankita Yargal, a medical officer at the Namma Clinic in Wambay Colony, Bagalkot, is under investigation for allegedly drawing a monthly government salary of approximately ₹70,000 while being absent from duty for six months.

Reports indicate that between March and September, Dr. Yargal was reportedly pursuing a full-time postgraduate medical course at a private college while maintaining her government position. The investigation, initiated by the Bagalkot Zilla Panchayat, is examining whether this dual engagement violated service rules and professional ethics. Her absence has reportedly caused significant inconvenience to patients seeking healthcare services at the clinic.

Dr. Yargal is the niece of Bagalkot Congress MLA Umesh Meti and the daughter of District Health Officer Dr. Rajkumar Yargal. Following the allegations, Zilla Panchayat CEO Gajanan Bale directed that she be relieved from her duties. Authorities have issued a notice for her to appear for a hearing and have warned that the salary paid during her unauthorized absence may be recovered. The case may be referred to the Karnataka Medical Council and the National Medical Commission for professional misconduct.