Kannadigas’ Job Priority: Karnataka Minister Confirms Private Quota Bill Will Be Enforced

Karnataka’s Information Technology Minister, Priyank Kharge, emphasized that Kannadigas should have the primary right to jobs in the state. He stated that although the private sector quota bill is currently on hold, it will eventually be implemented.

Kharge explained that the delay is due to concerns from the industrial sector, which need to be addressed through consultations. He reiterated that the residents of Karnataka should be prioritized for employment opportunities.

The Congress leader mentioned that the draft of the private sector quota bill, initially introduced by the state’s labor department, required inter-ministerial consultations before finalizing employment clauses. Kharge stressed that all actions would be lawful to avoid challenges, citing Haryana’s experience where a similar law was struck down.

In 2020, Haryana’s government passed a bill reserving 75 percent of private sector jobs with salaries up to ₹30,000 per month for local residents. This bill was approved by the Governor but later challenged by the Faridabad Industries Association and other groups in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. They argued that the law infringed on constitutional rights, asserting that private sector employment should be skill-based and open nationwide. The court eventually ruled that states cannot discriminate against non-residents.

Kharge questioned the logic of not providing employment to locals, especially in areas where industries are established on land given by local residents. He argued that the government has a duty to facilitate employment for its people.

Leading up to the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, the Congress party had pledged to reserve 80 percent of jobs in both public and private sectors for locals. On July 16, the state cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, approved “The Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories, and Other Establishments Bill, 2024.” This bill stipulates a 75 percent reservation for local candidates in non-management roles and a 50 percent reservation in management positions.