​How will the Kannadiga reservation bill affect working professionals in Bengaluru?​

Jul 18, 2024

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​​Key Takeaways

​The Karnataka cabinet approved a Bill reserving jobs for Kannadigas.​50% of management jobs and 75% of non-management jobs in the private sector must be filled by locals.​100% reservation for locals in C&D grade jobs.

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​​What is the purpose of the bill?​

​The Bill aims to prioritise Kannadigas' employment in both private and public sectors in Karnataka. The government believes this will ensure locals aren't deprived of job opportunities, boosting local employment and supporting Kannadigas' welfare.

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​​Who is a local?

The Bill defines a ‘local candidate’ as an individual born in Karnataka, residing in the state for at least 15 years, fluent in Kannada and passing a test administered by the nodal agency.

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​​How the Bill may affect different tiers of jobs: Management Jobs

50% of these jobs must be filled by Kannadigas.​These positions typically include management, executives, and highly skilled professionals, excluding directors.​

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How the Bill may affect different tiers of jobs: ​Non-Management Jobs

​75% of these jobs must be filled by Kannadigas.Positions include clerical and administrative unskilled and semi-skilled roles, support staff, IT/ITES employees, and other operational roles.

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How the Bill may affect different tiers of jobs: ​​C & D Grade Jobs​

​100% reservation for Kannadigas.​These roles are typically clerical, support staff, and other non-executive positions.

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​What you’ll have to do to continue having a job in Bengaluru: Kannadigas

Ensure that you have the necessary qualifications, including proficiency in Kannada. Further, take advantage of any training programs offered to enhance your skills and meet job requirements.

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​What you’ll have to do to continue having a job in Bengaluru: non-Kannadigas

For management roles, ensure your skills and experience are indispensable, as the 50% reservation still allows room for non-locals. For non-management roles, you may need to prove Kannada proficiency via a language test. Be prepared for possible retraining programs for locals.

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​​Industry concerns​

​Industry leaders fear the Bill could harm Bengaluru's tech sector, which depends on skilled talent from across India and globally. They worry mandatory reservations and government oversight in recruitment could disrupt operational flexibility and efficiency.

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