Losing pay for both days: Bank employee stock manager responds after requesting medical leave, netizens are angry

A WhatsApp conversation between an employee and his manager, which has now gone viral on Reddit, has sparked a widespread debate about the toxic work culture and lack of empathy that many Indian employees face when taking medical leave. The conversation, posted under a topic discussing exploitation in the workplace, highlights how some managers still equate illness with a lack of responsibility.

In contrast, the employee politely tells his manager about a painful medical condition: “Good morning sir, I went to the hospital on Saturday the 11th due to my condition. The doctor suspects fissures in the best cases and hemorrhoids in the worst cases. I am unable to sit or stand for a long time. Please give me medical leave for today.”

When the condition does not improve, he sends a message again: “Good morning sir, it is still unmanageable. I can’t sit properly. Please, I request you to extend the leave for today as well.”

But instead of sympathy, the manager responds sharply: “Who taught you discipline? Look at the time you ask for time off. That would be a loss of pay for both days.”

The conversation struck a chord on Reddit, with users calling the manager’s behavior toxic and unprofessional. “Attach all evidence and submit to HR. Get a medical certificate if necessary. Once you’ve recovered, look for a better job with a promotion — and ask your manager to touch grass,” one commenter advised.

Another wrote: “You deserve a better manager. A manager is supposed to guide you and help you, not fight with you.” Others pointed out that such pressure is common in the banking and sales sectors, where “not even a security guard escapes CASA targets.”

Several users also shared how they draw boundaries, with one commenting: “If a company employee texts me on WhatsApp, I will block them immediately. If you want to communicate, give me the company phone.”