State health department officials raided the residence of 62-year-old Surekha Charaki in Bagalkot district, sealing an illegal maternity clinic she operated. Acting on a tip-off, officials, including taluk medical officer Dr. G S Galagali and sub-inspector Nagaraja Khilari, conducted the raid in Kumbara Galli, Jamkhandi.
Surekha Charaki, who only holds an SSLC (secondary school leaving certificate), posed as a doctor, performing surgeries and prescribing medications. Confiscated items included abortion pills, medicines, and medical equipment sourced from Krishna Medical in the city and Vijayapur.
Jamkhandi sub-divisional magistrate Santhosh Kamagowda confirmed the seizure of medical supplies and the ongoing investigation. Police sub-inspector N R Khilari stated that the health officers are yet to file a case, after which an FIR will be registered. Dr. GS Galagali emphasized that the investigation will explore Charaki’s activities and those who may have assisted her, promising stringent action against all involved.