Karnataka Government Approves Reservation Bill Amid Concerns From Industry Leaders

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the approval of a bill enforcing 50% reservation for administrative roles and 75% for non-administrative positions for Kannadigas in private industries. The bill has faced opposition from industry leaders who argue it may negatively impact the tech sector.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday clarified that the cabinet, in its Monday meeting, approved a bill enforcing 50% reservation for administrative posts and 75% for non-administrative posts for Kannadigas in private industries. The CM previously suggested the government would seek 100 percent reservation for Kannadigas in C&D category jobs, but this was not included in the final bill. Siddaramaiah confirmed the cabinet decision on his official X handle, prioritizing the welfare of Kannadigas.

"Our government's aim is to ensure Kannadigas are not deprived of job opportunities in their homeland and can lead a comfortable life here. We prioritize the welfare of Kannadigas," the CM emphasized. Earlier, State Commerce and Industries Minister MB Patil highlighted the need for consultation to address industrialists' concerns about the bill mandating 100 percent reservation for Kannadigas in C&D grade government jobs.

"Many have expressed apprehensions. We will resolve these issues through consultations involving the CM, IT-BT Minister, Law Minister, and Labour Minister," Patil stated. Emphasizing the competitive era of the industrial revolution, Patil assured that Karnataka will safeguard everyone's interests while remaining a leading state in industrial growth. Industry leaders in Karnataka have criticized the reservation move as 'discriminatory' and fear it could damage the tech sector.