Karnataka Pauses Bill Mandating Reservation for Locals in Private Sectors

BENGALURU: Karnataka minister for heavy industries M.B. Patil announced on Wednesday that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has temporarily halted the approval for the Karnataka State Employment of Local Industries Factories Establishment Act Bill, 2024, which aimed to reserve 100 per cent of 'C' and 'D' category posts for Kannadigas in the private sector. This decision follows criticism from industrialists, including members of the National Association of Software and Service Companies (Nasscom), who warned that the bill could hinder the state's progress and urged its withdrawal.

Initially, Siddaramaiah had announced Cabinet approval for the bill on Tuesday, proposing 50 per cent reservation for Kannadigas in management roles and 75 per cent in non-management positions in private sector companies. However, in response to industry opposition, the Chief Minister has opted to withhold final approval pending further consultations.

Minister Patil assured that the government is taking a cautious approach and urged industry leaders not to be alarmed by the draft bill. Siddaramaiah further stated that a comprehensive discussion will occur during the upcoming Cabinet meeting scheduled for July 22 to finalise the bill's approval, emphasising that the legislation is still under preparation.

The initiative to introduce this legislation stems from demands by groups like Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (Narayana Gowda faction), a pro-Kannada organisation, advocating for job reservations for Kannadigas in the private sector through legal means.