The Karnataka government convened a cabinet session where it decided to introduce seven bills, including one proposing 100% reservation for Kannadigas in Category C and D jobs across all industries in the state. This legislation aims to reserve 50% of managerial positions and 75% of non-managerial roles for local candidates within the private sector. Additionally, the government is considering full reservation for locals in “C&D” grade government jobs through the State Employment of Local Candidates in Industries, Factories, and Other Establishments Bill, 2024.
Karnataka CM Siddaramiah emphasized the state government’s commitment to Kannadigas’ welfare, stating, “The cabinet approved a bill mandating 100% employment of Kannadigas in ‘C and D’ grade positions across all private industries in Karnataka. We aspire for Kannadigas to secure jobs in their homeland and lead comfortable lives. Our government is pro-Kannada, prioritizing the welfare of our people.”
The bill drafted by the Labour Department highlights concerns about jobs in Karnataka being taken by individuals from northern states. It mandates that industries benefiting from state-provided infrastructure, including land and water, must reserve jobs for local residents, a measure endorsed during the cabinet meeting.
Previously, the Sarojini Mahishi Committee recommended varying degrees of job reservations for Kannadigas based on industry size and category, with up to 100% reservation in categories C and D, but lacked enforceable policies. Similarly, the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act of 2022 proposed reservations for industries receiving state incentives, yet lacked specific implementation guidelines.
During the recent cabinet session, the bill proposing 100% job reservation for Kannadigas in C and D grade positions was approved, with the Labour Department anticipating swift presentation and passage during the current session.
Furthermore, sources indicate that the cabinet approved seven bills, including amendments to the Karnataka Goods and Services Bill and the Karnataka Irrigation Bill for 2024.
