Karnataka CM warns of action against private firms sidelining Kannadigas

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar remarks followed a series of complaints on social media alleging that Kannadigas were being denied employment opportunities.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday (October 25, 2026) warned that the government would take appropriate action against private companies found deliberately sidelining Kannadigas in employment.The government would not allow the rights, dignity and opportunities of Kannadigas to be disregarded, he said.

“It is disheartening to hear complaints that Kannadigas are facing injustice in employment opportunities in Bengaluru’s Information Technology companies. The Government has taken seriously the issue of native Kannada speakers being sidelined,” Mr. Shivakumar said on social media platform X.

His remarks followed a series of complaints on social media alleging that Kannadigas were being denied employment opportunities. Recently, a woman claimed online that candidates who mentioned Kannada in their resumes were being rejected by Bengaluru-based companies. She also alleged that few Kannadigas were being hired and that those selected were offered lower salaries. She sought the Deputy Chief Minister’s intervention.

“In Karnataka, Kannadiga is sovereign. The Government will not allow the rights, dignity and opportunities of Kannadigas to be disregarded for any reason. The world sees Bengaluru as India’s technology capital, and we take immense pride in the talent, skills, and capabilities of our Kannadigas,” Mr. Shivakumar said.

“If it is found that any private institution is deliberately sidelining Kannadigas, the Government will take appropriate action,” he warned, adding that the government remained committed to addressing concerns affecting Kannadigas.