PhonePe CEO Apologizes Amid Karnataka Job Quota Controversy

PhonePe CEO Sameer Nigam issued an unconditional apology for his controversial comments on the halted Karnataka job quota bill. Facing backlash on social media, Nigam clarified his intention was not to offend. He praised Bengaluru's tech talent and stressed the company’s commitment to diversity and meritorious employment.

Amid rising backlash over his comments on the now-stalled Karnataka job quota bill, PhonePe CEO and Founder Sameer Nigam on Sunday extended an unconditional apology, clarifying he never intended to insult the state or its people.

The controversy erupted when Nigam criticized the Karnataka government's initial proposal to reserve private-sector jobs for locals, leading to boycott calls against PhonePe on social media.

Nigam emphasized PhonePe's roots in Bengaluru and expressed pride in the city's tech talent and cultural diversity. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fair and merit-based employment opportunities for all, including local Kannadigas, highlighting this approach's role in creating societal and economic value.