Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar vows action against IT companies discriminating against locals

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday, October 25 vowed action against IT companies that discriminate against Kannadigas in hirings. While the CM did not specify what kind of action would be taken, he said that his government would not allow the “rights, dignity and opportunities of Kannadigas” to be disregarded for any reason.
In a social media post, the Chief Minister said: “It is disheartening to hear complaints that Kannadigas are being denied job opportunities in Bengaluru’s IT companies. The government has taken the issue of native Kannada speakers being sidelined seriously. In Karnataka, the Kannadiga is sovereign.”

The move comes in the backdrop of a few complaints on social media that Kannadigas are being sidelined in hirings.

The CM said that the world sees Bengaluru as India’s technology capital and the government takes immense pride in the talent, skills and capabilities of Kannadigas. “If it is found that any private institution has deliberately sidelined Kannadigas, the government will take appropriate action. As the voice of Kannadiga interests, the government is always committed to responding to their concerns,” his post read. 

The controversy has revived a debate over local employment in Karnataka.

In 2024, the state Cabinet had approved a bill proposing job reservations for local candidates in private industries. However, the bill was put on hold after CEOs and industry groups expressed concerns.