Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Karnataka Drafts Law to Mandate 5% Private-Sector Jobs and 10% Seats in Every Course for Persons With Disabilities

Public feedback is open for 30 days following the gazette notification ahead of Cabinet review.

Overview

  • Private establishments with 20 or more employees would implement the 5% quota in phases, file annual compliance reports and carry forward unfilled posts for limited recruitment cycles.
  • Exemptions are permitted only when essential job functions cannot be performed even with reasonable accommodation, and employers are barred from disclosing disability information without informed consent.
  • All educational institutions must reserve 10% seats per course, provide classroom and exam accommodations, submit Accessibility and Inclusion Plans within six months and achieve full physical and digital access within five years.
  • The measure would be the first state-level mandate for a private-sector disability quota if enacted, with a State Regulatory Authority overseeing compliance and a State Enforcement Authority adjudicating complaints and awarding compensation.
  • Violations may attract fines of Rs 10,000 to Rs 5 lakh along with corrective directions and public disclosure, and the Labour Department has invited objections and suggestions within 30 days.