In a significant move, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved a new Bill that mandates industries, factories, and other private sector establishments to appoint local candidates in 50% of management positions and 75% in non-management roles. The Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, 2024, received clearance in a Cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on July 15. It is expected to be presented in the ongoing legislative session.
According to the Bill, a local candidate is defined as someone born in Karnataka, domiciled in the state for at least 15 years, and proficient in Kannada. This includes being able to speak, read, and write Kannada legibly and passing a test conducted by a designated nodal agency. Candidates must have completed secondary school with Kannada as a language or pass a Kannada proficiency test specified by the government.
If qualified local candidates are not available, industries and establishments are required to collaborate with the government to train local candidates within three years. In cases where sufficient local candidates still cannot be found, businesses can apply for a relaxation from the Act.
The government, after conducting a thorough inquiry, may grant such relaxations, ensuring that the percentage of local candidates does not fall below 25% in management positions and 50% in non-management roles. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000.
The passage of this Bill comes amid long-standing demands for job reservations for Kannadigas. Earlier in July, Kannada organizations held rallies across the state, urging the immediate implementation of the Sarojini Mahishi report, which recommended quotas for locals in both government and private sector jobs.
Sarojini Mahishi, a former Union Minister and the first woman MP from Karnataka chaired a committee that submitted a report in 1984 with 58 recommendations. One of the key recommendations was 100% reservation for locals in group C and D jobs in Central government departments and public sector undertakings operating in Karnataka.
This new Bill aims to address these demands by ensuring significant employment opportunities for locals in the private sector, thereby promoting regional development and supporting the local workforce.
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