“Memorandum Alleges Bias Against Kannadigas in Central Defense Job Recruitments”
Bengaluru: A delegation from the 515 Army Base Workshop Kannada Literature and Cultural Association met Dr. Purushottam Bilimale, Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority (KDA), on Sunday, raising concerns over the alleged marginalization of local Kannadiga candidates in central government recruitments, particularly for Group C and D positions at the 515 Army Base Workshop. The delegation, led by Veeakaputra Srinivas and other members, submitted a memorandum highlighting several grievances, including the practice of advertising job vacancies in newspapers outside Karnataka, which they claimed sidelined local applicants.
The delegation called for immediate corrective measures, including the publication of job advertisements in local newspapers across Karnataka, the use of Kannada as a medium for written tests in Group C and D posts, and the extension of application deadlines to ensure fair opportunities for local candidates. Additionally, they demanded the Karnataka state government intervene to protect the interests of Kannada-speaking job aspirants.
Criticizing the silence of Karnataka’s MPs on the matter, the delegation members, including advocate Satya Shree, labeled it a “betrayal of the people” and urged stronger advocacy from elected representatives. Dr. Purushottam Bilimale, in response, assured the delegation that the matter would be addressed seriously, with letters to be sent to the Defense Ministry and the Central Government to advocate for their demands. Efforts will also be made to involve Karnataka MPs and central ministers to ensure the rights of Kannadigas are upheld.
The delegation also recognized the efforts of former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna, who had previously written to then Defense Minister George Fernandes advocating for the inclusion of Kannada in recruitment processes.
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