Topic

india

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah with folded hands, smiling, in front of a stylized background featuring a red circle and diagonal stripes. To the right, the text "Reservation Bill" is displayed with silhouettes of raised fists and protest signs.

Karnataka Pauses Controversial Job Quota Bill Amid Industry Backlash

The Karnataka government, led by Siddaramaiah, paused the employment quota Bill for locals in the private sector after criticism from industry leaders and the public. The Bill proposed a 50% quota for administrative roles and a 75% quota for non-administrative roles. This followed a now-deleted post from Siddaramaiah announcing a 100% reservation for local Kannadigas in 'C' and 'D' grade roles. Industry leaders like Kiran Mazumdar Shaw criticized the Bill, arguing it would harm the IT sector. Facing pressure, Siddaramaiah clarified the Bill is still in preparation, with a final decision pending further discussion in the next cabinet meeting. The Bill needs Assembly approval to become law. Political analyst Sandeep Shastri linked the Bill to growing local protectionism. Pro-Kannada activists’ protests led to Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) mandating 60% Kannada signage, sparking legal challenges.