Sat May 03 13:59:02 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Weavers Demand Minimum Wage, Reservation Protection
**Hubballi, Karnataka – May 3, 2025** – The Akhila Karnataka Pattasale Nekara Sangha, representing Karnataka’s Pattasale Nekara (weaver) community, held a press conference today demanding better treatment from both the state and central governments. The group, representing one of the most backward communities within the weaving caste, is calling for inclusion under the Minimum Wages Act, ensuring their existing reservations are protected, and increased government support.
The president of the Sangha, H. Thippeswamy, criticized the current system, stating that while weavers provide clothing for society, they themselves live in undignified conditions. He expressed concern over the recent caste census, alleging it drastically undercounted the community (estimating 4 lakh members instead of 45 lakh). While supporting a caste census in principle, the Sangha opposes the methodology used.
General Secretary Chandrakanth K. Shekha highlighted the government’s failure to provide consistent employment opportunities. He urged the government to directly commission the weavers for supplying uniforms and other textiles, providing regular work. The group also criticized the lack of funding for the Nekar Abhivruddhi Pradhikara, a body established to support weavers.
The Sangha is planning to build a community hall and skill center and is requesting land from the government for this project. An awareness program will be launched tomorrow in Nekar Nagar by Labour Minister Santosh Lad. The organization’s overall plea is for recognition of the weavers’ vital role in society and their inclusion within the protective umbrella of labor laws and social welfare programs.
First Piper 