Karnataka Govt Terminates MLA’s Niece’s Contract Over Alleged Absence From Namma Clinic

A Congress MLA’s niece was allegedly paid Rs 75,000 per month as a government medical officer while enrolled in an MD programme at a private medical college in the Bagalkot area. The Karnataka government cancelled her contract on Monday.

In April 2025, Dr Ankita R. Yaragal, the daughter of District Health Officer (DHO) Dr Rajkumar Yaragal and niece of Bagalkot MLA Umesh Meti, was appointed as the medical officer at Namma Clinic in Wambe Colony in Bagalkot town. District Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gajanan Bale ordered the termination of her contract after the matter came to light.

He told reporters on Monday, “I have requested a report from the DHO, and action will be initiated.”

Activist alleges doctor continued government job while pursuing MD

According to local activist Raju Naik, Dr Ankita Yaragal enrolled in an MD programme in pathology at a private college in March this year without leaving her position as a medical officer.

Dr Yaragal was not present when Bagalkot Taluk Health Officer Dr Saraswati Magi visited the Namma Clinic in Wambe Colony a few days ago, according to reports. Dr Yaragal said she was out of station when Dr Magi called her. Although her attendance record reportedly showed no break, patients complained to Dr Magi about the duty doctor’s absence from the clinic for the previous three months.

According to Naik, nurses have been running the clinic and Dr Yaragal has never been there. He alleged that her father, Dr Rajkumar Yaragal, was the driving force behind her appointment, calling it unlawful and a waste of taxpayers’ money. He also alleged that the Namma Clinic had been found closed.

Doctor’s father denies disbursing her salary after appointment

Naik also claimed that Dr Yaragal had been working as a medical officer and receiving a salary of Rs 75,000 per month.

Rajkumar Yaragal, Ankita’s father, told reporters that she was appointed while Dr Manjunath Dodderi was in office. “Since taking over as DHO, I have not disbursed her salary. I have directed the taluk health officer to relieve her of her duties,” he said.

MLA Umesh Meti and Dr Ankita have not responded to the allegations.