The Karnataka government has taken a significant step toward prioritizing local employment with the approval of the “Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, 2024.” This bill mandates 100% reservation for Kannadigas in Group C and Group D posts in private firms. The bill, set to be tabled in the Assembly on Thursday, aims to ensure job opportunities for local candidates and promote the welfare of Kannadigas.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill outlines specific quotas for local candidates in various employment categories within private industries, factories, and other establishments. The primary provisions are:
- 100% Reservation for Kannadigas: The bill mandates complete reservation for Kannadigas in Group C and Group D posts.
- Local Candidate Quotas: Industries must appoint 50% local candidates in management categories and 70% in non-management categories.
- Kannada Proficiency: Candidates must have a secondary school certificate with Kannada as a language or pass a Kannada proficiency test specified by the Nodal Agency.
- Training Initiatives: If qualified local candidates are not available, establishments must collaborate with the government to train them within three years.
- Relaxation Provisions: Establishments can apply for relaxation if sufficient local candidates are not available. However, this relaxation cannot be less than 25% for management categories and 50% for non-management categories.
Implementation and Compliance
The bill outlines the responsibilities and powers of a nodal agency to ensure compliance with its provisions. The key points include:
- Nodal Agency Role: The nodal agency will verify reports furnished by employers, occupiers, or managers of establishments and submit a report to the government on the implementation of the bill.
- Powers to Inspect: The nodal agency can call for any records, information, or documents from employers to verify compliance.
- Authorized Officer: The government will appoint an officer not below the rank of Assistant Labour Commissioner to oversee compliance.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The bill includes stringent penalties for establishments that do not comply with its provisions. Key penalties include:
- Initial Penalty: Employers, occupiers, or managers who contravene the bill’s provisions will face a penalty ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000.
- Continuing Penalty: If non-compliance continues after the initial penalty, further penalties of up to Rs 100 per day will be imposed until compliance is achieved.
Government’s Commitment to Local Welfare
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of Kannadigas, stating, “We are a pro-Kannada government. Our priority is to look after the welfare of the Kannadigas.” The bill reflects this commitment by ensuring that local candidates have ample job opportunities within the state
