Karnataka is not the first state to do so, Haryana, Jharkhand, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and other states have time and again attempted to enact laws and policies that mandate to provide quota for the locals. Though many of these laws were scrapped by the courts of law citing ‘unconstitutionality,’ it begs the question: why do the government and political discourses continue to revolve around this debate, and what does it mean for the welfare of the people and the country? https://thewire.in/labour/locals-vs-outsiders-the-bitter-truth-behind-karnatakas-jobs-reservation-policy 

The rise of the private sector post-liberalisation of the Indian economy in the 1990s has also emerged as one of the major employment providers. Many scholars argued that with the rise of modernisation, urbanisation and privatisation, caste will lose its essence and relevance. However, the work of Sukhadeo Thorat and Katherine Blocked by Caste scientifically proves that caste reshapes itself to survive and thrive in the private sector and urban areas.

An outsider or migrant is often depicted as an enemy who steals jobs and takes away opportunities, claiming a significant share of the pie. Humans, driven by primal instincts to protect their territory and resources, often struggle to trust and accept strangers in their midst

Karnataka has always attracted migrants from the adjacent states of erstwhile Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Apart from these states, there is an influx of people from northern, eastern and northeastern states.

What can be done

Instead, Karnataka can address its multiple socio-economic challenges, which require immediate attention, by providing sustainable and comprehensive solutions.

by Boddu Srujana, Murali DA and Sipoy Sarveswar

25/07/2024