In a stirring case drawing attention across workplaces in the city, a Hyderabad based tech employee was given a strict warning by his doctor to take rest due to severe back pain. He submitted a medical prescription to request working from home (WFH), but his manager rejected the request and demanded that he report to the office. The incident has sparked widespread online debate over employee rights, health and workplace empathy.
What Happened
- The employee, who works for a tech company in Hyderabad, developed intense back pain. His doctor advised rest and prescribed medication and reduced strain on his spine.
- Based on medical advice, the techie formally requested to work from home, attaching the doctor’s prescription as proof of his condition.
- Instead of accommodating the employee’s health condition, his manager allegedly refused to grant remote work, insisting the employee come into the office immediately.
- Feeling aggrieved and overlooked, the employee shared his experience on the subreddit “When To Switch Companies?”, where it struck a chord with many who have faced similar situations.
Public & Professional Reactions
- The story went viral on social media, with many criticizing the manager’s lack of empathy and labeling the refusal “callous.”
- Discussion is centering around whether companies are doing enough to protect employee health and mental well being.
- Occupational health experts say this kind of response ignoring medical advice and forcing attendance despite health warnings can lead to long-term damage, reduced productivity, and worsening of medical conditions.
What the Doctors Are Warning
- Medical professionals emphasize that severe back pain is not just “part of the job” it can be a sign of serious spinal strain, disc issues, or nerve compression if ignored.
- They advise people with persistent pain, especially when it radiates to limbs or causes numbness, to seek medical attention immediately. Delays in treatment can lead to irreversible damage.
- Proper rest, ergonomic workstations, posture correction, frequent breaks from sitting, and gentle movement or physiotherapy are repeatedly recommended as essential precautionary measures.
Broader Implications & What Should Change
- The case highlights the necessity for clear policies in workplaces that allow for health based remote work or flexible arrangements.
- Companies are being urged to adopt a more empathetic management style and to ensure managers are trained to understand medical prescriptions and health.
- Employee well being is increasingly being recognized as critical for sustainable productivity. Organizations that fail to protect this may face higher absenteeism, lower morale, and reputational damage.
What Employees Should Do
- Document everything: Keep doctor’s notes, prescriptions, and records of your symptoms.
- Approach HR or higher management with the medical document, explaining your limitations.
- Know your rights: Labor laws, employment contracts, and company policies may have clauses related to medical leave or remote work.
- Seek a second medical opinion if the pain worsens or symptoms like limb weakness appear.
