Bengaluru Metro Recruitment: BMRCL Withdraws Notification Easing Kannada Language Norms After Facing Backlash

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) withdrew the controversial recruitment notification that relaxed Kannada language requirements for hiring 50 loco pilots on a contract basis. The decision follows strong opposition from pro-Kannada groups and local activists, who claimed the move disadvantaged local candidates in Karnataka.

The now-withdrawn notification, issued on March 12, permitted candidates without prior knowledge of Kannada to apply, provided they learned the language within a year of employment. Additionally, applicants were required to have at least three years of prior experience as a loco pilot in any metro rail network.

Pro-Kannada organisations, including the Kannada Development Authority (KDA), along with local job seekers, objected to the policy, arguing that it gave outsiders an unfair advantage over Kannadigas. They accused BMRCL of prioritising non-local candidates and ignoring the employment rights of Karnataka residents.

ALSO READ: Chhattisgarh Journalist Murder: Police Names Contractor In Chargesheet, Reveals Accused Called Victim Before Killing Him

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed the controversy on social media, asserting the government’s commitment to prioritising Kannadigas in metro jobs. He stated that he directed the BMRCL managing director to ensure adherence to state employment guidelines, leading to the withdrawal of the recruitment notice.

"Our government stands by the people of Karnataka. The recruitment for Train Operators (Loco Pilots) requiring a minimum of three years’ experience has been withdrawn. I had instructed BMRCL to review the hiring process and ensure state policies are followed, securing rightful opportunities for Kannadigas," the deputy chief minister posted on X.

ALSO READ: Did You Know Indian Trains Are Among Cheapest Globally? How They Compare To Pakistan, Sri Lanka And Europe

In July 2023, the Karnataka state cabinet approved the State Employment of Local Candidates in Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, which proposed reserving 50 per cent of management jobs and 75 per cent of non-management roles for Kannadigas. However, the bill was withdrawn after facing resistance from industry leaders and major IT firms in Bengaluru.

Despite this setback, the government continues to push for increased job opportunities for local candidates, as seen in the BMRCL’s decision to revise its recruitment policies. Following the backlash, the metro authority is now expected to realign its hiring norms with state policies that favour local employment.