Shashi Tharoor Criticizes Karnataka’s Jobs Reservation Bill as ‘Unconstitutional’
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Friday criticized the Karnataka state government for introducing the controversial jobs reservation bill, labeling it as ‘unconstitutional’ and ‘unwise.’ Tharoor questioned the rationale behind the bill, stating, “I don’t know what Karnataka thought of it, on what basis?” He warned that such legislation could prompt companies to relocate their businesses to neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, potentially harming Karnataka’s economy.
The Karnataka cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, recently approved the ‘Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in Industries, Factories, and Other Establishments Bill, 2024.’ The proposed bill mandates that private firms in the state employ Kannadigas in 50% of management roles and reserve 70% of non-management positions for locals. However, the legislation has faced significant opposition from industry bodies and business leaders, who echo Tharoor’s concerns and caution that it could drive companies out of the state.
In response to the backlash, the Karnataka government has put the bill on hold. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that a ‘comprehensive discussion’ will take place in the next cabinet meeting to reach a final decision on the legislation. Tharoor also reminded the Karnataka government of a similar bill in Haryana that was struck down by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, emphasizing the need to adhere to constitutional guarantees of free movement and employment across the country.
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