Karnataka Minister MB Patil advises industry leaders not to panic about job quota bill.

Mr Patil took to social media platform X on Wednesday to announce that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has taken notice of the proposed bill and has decided to withhold it until further consultations and due diligence. He emphasized the government’s commitment to creating more job opportunities for Kannadigas in a more amicable manner. In response, state IT & BT Minister Priyank Kharge criticized Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister Nara Lokesh for suggesting NASSCOM members to relocate their businesses to Vizag from Bengaluru in light of the proposed bill. Kharge highlighted Karnataka’s history of excelling in various sectors due to their collaborative approach with industry leaders and vowed to incorporate recommendations from industry partners in the draft bill.

Kharge expressed the government’s goal to develop a global workforce using local talent and encouraging global investments while also creating employment opportunities. He also challenged Lokesh to ensure that companies investing in Andhra Pradesh employ deserving individuals from Andhra Pradesh. The Congress-led Karnataka government acknowledged that the proposed bill, aiming to provide reservations for Kannadigas in the private sector, is still in the preparation stage. The bill has faced opposition from industry bodies and business leaders.

The Chief Minister announced a comprehensive discussion on the bill in the next Cabinet meeting to finalize a decision.