Bengaluru’s Namma Metro Withdraws Job Ad After Backlash Over Eased Kannada Norms: 'Favours Outsiders'

The issue began when BMRCL issued a notification on March 12 for train operators on a 5-year contract basis with provision allowing non-Kannadiga candidates a year to learn Kannada.

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has withdrawn its recruitment notice for 50 train operators (loco pilots) following widespread protests over the relaxation of Kannada language requirements. The decision, announced on Monday, came after strong opposition from pro-Kannada groups, employees’ unions and local job seekers, who argued that the recruitment criteria disadvantaged Kannadiga candidates.

The controversy began when BMRCL issued a notification on March 12 inviting applications for train operators on a five-year contract basis. The eligibility criteria specified that applicants must hold a Diploma in Engineering and have three years of experience working with any metro rail corporation. However, the provision allowing non-Kannadiga candidates a year to learn to read, write, and speak Kannada sparked outrage, as per a report on PTI.

Suryanarayana Murthy, Vice-President of the BMRCL Employees’ Union, expressed concerns in an email to BMRCL Managing Director M. Maheshwar Rao, arguing that the relaxed Kannada language requirement, coupled with the three-year metro rail experience condition, favoured “outsiders” over local candidates. He emphasised that Kannadigas, who understand the local work environment and commuting patterns, should be given priority in recruitment.

In response to the mounting pressure, BMRCL’s General Manager (Human Resources) officially withdrew the recruitment notification on Monday. The original deadline for applications had been set for April 4, but the notice was retracted following intervention from senior state officials.

Shivakumar Welcomes Move

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar confirmed the withdrawal on his official ‘X’ handle, stating, “Namma Jana for Namma Metro! The recent BMRCL recruitment for Train Operators (Loco Pilots)  requiring experience of minimum 3 years has been withdrawn." 

Shivakumar further explained that he had instructed BMRCL’s Managing Director to review the recruitment notification and ensure that the hiring process aligns with the state government’s policies. “I had asked MD BMRCL to relook at the notification regarding appointment of Train Operators on contract basis and to ensure that the state guidelines are followed. Our government stands firm on justice & fair representation—empowering Kannadigas and securing their rightful place,” he said.