A workplace conversation between a Bengaluru bank employee and his branch manager has exposed the harsh reality of toxic work culture in India. The incident involves a simple request for medical leave that turned into a lesson on discipline and commitment.
A bank employee in Bengaluru learned the hard way that being sick doesn’t always mean you will get sympathy from your boss. What should have been a simple sick leave request turned into an uncomfortable conversation about discipline and commitment.
The whole thing started when the employee posted on Reddit with the question: “What should I do with this kind of manager?” The screenshot he shared told a story that is becoming way too common among Indian offices.
The Bank Employee Was Actually Sick
What should I do with this kind of Manager
byu/nanukannadiga inIndianWorkplace
This wasn’t someone trying to skip work for a cricket match or a long weekend. The employee had a genuine medical problem that made sitting or standing painful. Doctors suspect it could be hemorrhoids or fissures, conditions that are not only painful but embarrassing to discuss.
He did what any responsible employee would do. He went to a doctor, got checked, received a prescription, and sent everything to his manager. He even explained his situation clearly.
What Did The Employee Say?
His message was straightforward: “I am unable to sit or stand for a long time, please provide me with medical leave.”
When his manager didn’t respond, he sent another message, saying his condition was still not manageable.
Realizing his boss wasn’t happy, he even apologized: “Please understand my situation, sir. I am asking for medical reasons. I am sorry for not informing you about my inability to come to the office because of my health ailments.”
Most people would expect some understanding at this point. But that is not what happened.
The Manager’s Response Was Really Unexpected
Instead of concern, the manager shot back with: “Who taught you discipline?”
Then came the threat: “Look at the time when you were asking for leave. It will be a loss of pay for both days.”
But wait, there’s more. The manager added, “Who will do your business? The more you run away from your responsibility and commitment, the more problems. You didn’t stand by your commitment as far as the first 10 days are concerned.”
Reading this, you would think the employee was asking for a month-long vacation to Goa, not one day to recover from a painful medical condition.
The Employee Stayed Calm
Despite being sick and getting lectured, the employee kept his cool. He replied, “I will do it, sir. I’m not running away from my commitment. I will cover up after I return to the office.”
That’s professionalism. Even while dealing with physical pain and an unsupportive boss, he promised to complete his work after recovering.
Reddit Users Had Thoughts
Once the post went viral, people didn’t hold back. The comment section turned into a mix of outrage, advice, and a bit of humor.
Someone pointed out the irony: “Text says ‘Who taught you discipline?’ and he’s a Branch Manager. Wow, I’m at a loss for words.”
Others suggested that the manager needed an English class and then a humanities class.
One user said: “Share all the required documents with HR and obtain a medical certificate from the doctor if required. Be professional and courteous in all communication, and as soon as you get better, get a new job with a promotion and an increment.”
Another person was more direct: “Just say I am on sick leave today and sleep, man. What is this culture of WhatsApp? Send an official email and turn off your phone.”
This Isn’t Just One Manager
Here’s the thing — the story hit a nerve because it is not unique. Thousands of employees across India face similar treatment. The pressure to show up even when you are genuinely sick has become normalized in many workplaces.
People are developing anxiety about taking leave. They are working through fever, pain, and exhaustion because they fear their manager’s reaction more than the damage to their health. That’s not normal, and it shouldn’t be acceptable.
Companies Need To Do Better
This incident should make companies think. Are they managing properly? Do they understand basic empathy? Are leave policies actually being followed?
Good managers understand that supporting employees during health issues builds loyalty. Employees who feel valued work harder and stay longer. It’s not complicated.
Organizations that ignore toxic management practices will keep losing good employees, and in today’s job market, that’s expensive.
That’s Not Management — That’s Bullying
A bank employee asked for one day off because he was in pain. He provided medical proof. He apologized. He promised to complete his work later. And still, he got a lecture about discipline.
Thousands of people who supported this employee online are sending a clear message: this kind of workplace behavior is not acceptable. Employees deserve basic decency, especially when they are dealing with health issues.
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