'Dad passed away a week ago, but...': Techie denied WFH after father's death; Manager's "insensitive" reply sparks outrage on Reddit

Economic Times

2 days ago

Synopsis An Indian tech professional's request for work from home after their father's death was denied, sparking outrage on Reddit. The employee, amidst performing post-death rituals, was instructed to return to the office, highlighting corporate insensitivity. Reddit users offered support and criticised the lack of bereavement leave laws in India, igniting debate on employee wellbeing and rigid corporate cultures. A post by an Indian tech professional has stirred intense emotions and debate on Reddit after they revealed how their request to work from home (WFH) following the death of their father was denied. Despite still being in the midst of performing the post-death rituals, the employee was reportedly told, in no uncertain terms, to return to the office.
ADVERTISEMENT The employee, who works for a service-based IT firm and is currently assigned to a client project, took to Reddit to share the painful experience, highlighting how corporate insensitivity during personal tragedy remains a harsh reality for many.
The tech worker shared that they had already taken five days of leave and an additional week of remote work while their father was hospitalised. After his passing, they sought an extended WFH arrangement for one month, to be able to stay with their grieving mother who now lives alone in their hometown.
In the post, they wrote, 'My dad passed away one week ago. I took 5 days' leave and one week of WFH as my dad was hospitalised earlier. Currently doing the ritual events.'
But the response they received from the client manager was far from empathetic.'He just said 'Finish the rituals and please plan to proceed ahead'. Meaning, 'come back to the office'. I asked for a call, he didn't respond.'
ADVERTISEMENT What added to their frustration was the lack of support from their own company manager, who, according to them, chose not to intervene or advocate for flexibility on their behalf.The post rapidly gained traction on Reddit, with users offering their sympathy, outrage, and even professional help. A moderator of the subreddit commented, 'Take the holiday, whatever number of days you require. If they fire, terminate, or take any action against you, we (mod team) are here to help. Your resume will get visibility on the subreddit, our Discord server, and through our HR network. You don't have to worry about money.'
ADVERTISEMENT They also pointed out the lack of bereavement leave laws in India, calling it a shame given the deeply ritualistic mourning practices across Indian cultures.One user wrote, 'Your mum needs you now. Forget these corporate jerks. No one should have to make this choice.'
ADVERTISEMENT Another added, 'I think WFH has become a luxury in India. Take the leave. Complete the rituals. These companies will never change.'
The story has ignited fresh conversations around employee wellbeing, bereavement policies, and the human cost of rigid corporate cultures. In a country where death is marked with weeks of rituals and emotional upheaval, the absence of enforceable compassionate leave frameworks leaves employees relying solely on the goodwill of their managers, or lack thereof.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a user-generated post on Reddit. ET.com has not independently verified the claims made in the post and does not vouch for their accuracy. The views expressed are those of the individual and do not necessarily reflect the views of ET.com. Reader discretion is advised.
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