A viral Reddit post from an Indian techie, shared on July 16, 2025, has set the internet on fire, and for good reason. The unnamed employee’s plea for work-from-home flexibility after their father’s death was met with a chilling response from their manager:
“Finish the rituals and come back.” This isn’t just a story about one heartless boss—it’s a glaring spotlight on a deeper rot in India’s corporate culture, where empathy is often sacrificed at the altar of productivity. The online outrage is palpable, and it’s time we take a stand: Indian workplaces must evolve to prioritize human dignity over rigid policies, or risk alienating the very talent they depend on.
The post, which exploded across social media, paints a grim picture. A grieving employee, already grappling with personal loss, was denied a basic accommodation to work remotely. Instead of support, they got a cold directive to wrap up their mourning and get back to the grind. This isn’t an isolated incident—it’s a symptom of a broader mindset that views employees as cogs, not people.
In a country where family is the bedrock of society, dismissing someone’s grief as an inconvenience is not just tone-deaf; it’s a betrayal of our values. Let’s be clear: the work-from-home debate isn’t new. The pandemic forced Indian companies to adapt to remote work, and many thrived. Productivity didn’t collapse; in fact, studies showed employees often worked harder from home.
Yet, as offices reopen, some corporations are doubling down on mandatory in-person policies, as if physical presence equals performance. The techie’s story exposes the absurdity of this logic. If someone can deliver results from home while navigating personal tragedy, why force them into a cubicle? It’s not about trust—it’s about control.
The online backlash is telling. People are calling out managers who hide behind “client expectations” or “company policy” to justify inhumane decisions. One comment put it bluntly: “If your workplace can’t accommodate grief, it’s not a workplace—it’s a prison.” And they’re not wrong. India’s IT sector, a global powerhouse, prides itself on innovation, yet clings to outdated management practices that treat employees like replaceable parts.
This isn’t just bad for workers; it’s bad for business. A 2024 study by Gallup found that high employee engagement correlates with 23% higher profitability. Stifling empathy, on the other hand, breeds resentment, burnout, and turnover. On the flip side, some argue that in-person work fosters collaboration and accountability. Fair point, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Forcing a grieving employee to commute to an office doesn’t spark creativity—it breeds bitterness.
Companies like Infosys and TCS have shown flexibility in hybrid models, proving it’s possible to balance business needs with human ones. The problem isn’t the system; it’s the stubborn refusal to adapt. Managers who demand face-time over results aren’t leading—they’re bullying. This viral post isn’t just a fleeting social media storm; it’s a wake-up call.
Indian workplaces must rethink their approach to empathy, starting with flexible work policies that respect personal crises. It’s not about coddling employees—it’s about recognizing that life happens, and no one should have to beg for basic compassion. If we want India to remain a global leader in tech and innovation, we need leaders who value people over policies. The techie’s story isn’t just a scandal—it’s a chance to demand better. Let’s not waste it.