Trade bodies protest revised minimum wage order in Belagavi

Belagavi: Widespread opposition to the state govt’s revised minimum wage order surfaced in Belagavi on Sunday, with various trade, business and industrial associations staging a massive protest.

Traders, industrialists and representatives of multiple associations gathered at Kannada Sahitya Bhavan near Chennamma Circle to deliberate on the implications of the wage revision. They later took out a procession and submitted a memorandum to DC Mohammed Roshan.

The associations urged the govt to reconsider the decision, contending that the steep hike in minimum wages would impose a significant financial burden on businesses, industries and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Addressing the gathering, Belagavi Chamber of Commerce president Prabhakar Nagarmanoli said industries are already grappling with rising operational costs and inflation. He cautioned that a sudden and substantial wage hike could push several businesses towards closure, potentially leading to job losses.

“We are not opposed to a gradual increase in wages. However, implementing such a substantial hike at one stroke will severely impact industries and businesses,” he said.

Nagarmanoli also pointed out that minimum wages in neighbouring states remain comparatively lower, while Karnataka has introduced a sharp increase, terming it a setback to the industrial sector at a time when industries are seeking support for sustainability and growth.

DC Mohammed Roshan, who received the memorandum, assured the delegation that their concerns would be conveyed to the state govt. He added that efforts would be made to facilitate a meeting with the newly appointed labour and industries ministers to discuss the issue.

Satish Kulkarni, secretary of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries, along with office-bearers of various trade bodies, representatives of small-scale industries, and businessmen and entrepreneurs, participated in the protest.