Karnataka's Controversial IT Policy Change
Information technology unions have launched strong criticism against the Karnataka government's recent decision to permit self-certification for IT and ITeS companies. The move, included in the state's new IT policy under non-fiscal incentives, has been described by worker representatives as providing a 'free pass to violate laws'.
Policy Details and Implementation Timeline
The controversial provision allows IT and ITeS entities to file self-certifications according to notifications issued by the Labour Department. The policy was officially announced on 22 November 2025, with Bengaluru being the primary city affected by this regulatory change.
Labor unions argue that this self-regulation approach could significantly weaken worker protections and compliance monitoring in Karnataka's massive technology sector. The state's IT industry, concentrated heavily in Bengaluru, employs hundreds of thousands of professionals who might now face uncertain workplace protections.
Industry Reactions and Future Implications
The union backlash highlights growing tensions between regulatory flexibility for businesses and worker rights protection. As Karnataka positions itself as a business-friendly technology hub, critics worry that labor standards might be compromised through reduced oversight mechanisms.
The self-certification system represents a significant shift from traditional compliance monitoring, placing greater responsibility on companies to voluntarily adhere to labor regulations without regular government inspections. This development comes at a time when Karnataka's technology sector continues to expand rapidly, making effective labor protection mechanisms increasingly crucial.
