Bagalkot doctor allegedly draws Rs 75,000 salary while pursuing MD Pathology
Bagalkot: Questions have been raised over the functioning of a government health facility in Bagalkot after a medical officer was allegedly found to be receiving a monthly salary of Rs 75,000 while pursuing a full-time MD course at a private medical college.
The doctor was appointed as a medical officer at a Namma Clinic in Wambe Colony in 2025. She reportedly secured admission to an MD Pathology programme at a medical college in Bagalkot in March 2026, with classes beginning in April.
According to allegations, her government salary continued to be credited even after she began attending the postgraduate course. Health department records reportedly show monthly payments of around Rs 75,000 during this period.
The medical officer was required to be present at the facility from 9 am to 4.30 pm. However, residents have alleged that the clinic remained closed on several occasions because of her absence, affecting patients who depended on the facility for primary healthcare.
Under applicable government service and attendance rules, doctors pursuing full-time postgraduate medical education are required to meet the conditions governing their government service. The allegations have therefore prompted questions over whether the doctor was permitted to pursue the course while remaining in the post and receiving a salary.
Officials said the health department was not aware that the doctor had enrolled in the MD programme. The Taluk Health Officer said the matter would be examined and that an inquiry would be conducted before any notice or further action is initiated.
According to a report by The Hans India, the controversy has attracted attention because the doctor is the daughter of Bagalkot District Health Officer and daughter-in-law of Bagalkot MLA. The doctor's father said the appointment was made during the tenure of former DHO Manjunath Dodderi and claimed that her salary had now been withheld.
However, the health department's inquiry is expected to establish whether there was any violation of service rules, how the doctor continued on the government payroll and whether her absence affected the functioning of the clinic.
