Phonepe CEO Apologises Over Anti-Karnataka Job Reservation Bill Stance

The CEO of Bengaluru-born and based digital payments app, Phonepe, Sameer Nigam, just released an unconditional apology note via X after social media users trended #uninstallPhonepe over his critical remarks on the recent job reservation bill by the Karnataka government.

“I would first and foremost like to clarify that it was NEVER my intention to insult Karnataka and its people. If my comments hurt anyone’s sentiments in such a way, I am truly sorry and would like to offer you an unconditional apology,” Sameer Nigam wrote on X.

The proposed amendment to the Industries, Factories, and Other Establishments Bill, 2024, also known as the Karnataka job reservation bill, aims to introduce reservations for local Kannadigas in the private sector. 

The Karnataka State Employment Bill states that 50% of the candidates in management and 70% in non-management categories should come from the State of Karnataka. The bill also requires candidates who did not study Kannada in secondary school to pass a Kannada language proficiency test.

Nigam wrote on X that despite creating thousands of jobs through his startup, his children may be unable to secure employment in their hometown.

“I am 46 years old. Never lived in a state for 15+ yrs. My father worked in the Indian Navy. Got posted all over the country. His kids don’t deserve jobs in Karnataka? I build companies. Have created 25000+ jobs across India! My kids dont deserve jobs in their home city? Shame,” Nigam had posted on X recently.

Social Media Reaction:

His post had sparked widespread trolling, as social media users in Karnataka criticized Nigam for not presenting accurate information. They claimed that Kannadigas were the least employed in the private sector and called for a boycott of PhonePe.

One user wrote, “The numbers speak for themselves. Don't label Kannadigas as toxic. If we were, so many people wouldn't have made it their home! Respect local language and culture. That is not too much to ask for. Live and let live. #Kannada”

Nigam accepted that he lost his cool after reading some media articles. Now, he thinks that companies should be able to hire the best talent available in India solely based on their technology skills and proficiency in their fields.