'No empathy': Bengaluru bank employee shares WhatsApp chat after manager rejects urgent medical leave

Instead of responding with understanding, the manager reportedly criticised the employee’s conduct, calling it 'undisciplined' and 'unprofessional.'

An incident involving a bank manager’s reaction to an employee’s request for medical leave has drawn widespread criticism online. The matter came to public attention on the subreddit Indian Workplace, where an employee posted screenshots of a WhatsApp conversation with his supervisor.

According to the shared messages, the employee requested a few days off, explaining that he was experiencing severe discomfort due to suspected fissures or haemorrhoids. He included a doctor’s prescription to confirm his condition, emphasising that sitting or standing caused significant pain.

Instead of responding with understanding, the manager reportedly criticised the employee’s conduct, calling it “undisciplined” and “unprofessional.” He warned that any absence would result in deductions from the employee’s salary. When the employee asked to extend his leave as the pain persisted, the manager accused him of “running away” from his duties and instructed him to reply to an email marked for the Human Resources department.

What should I do with this kind of Manager
byu/nanukannadiga inIndianWorkplace

The post quickly generated strong reactions on Reddit. Users condemned the manager for a lack of empathy. One comment read: “He should take classes in basic compassion and communication.” Another advised the employee to submit all medical documentation, remain professional, and formally report the matter to HR, while also seeking employment in a more supportive organisation.

Several Redditors offered practical help, requesting the original poster’s CV to assist in job placement. One user wrote that the most effective support in such situations is helping someone secure a position in a workplace that values employee health and well-being.

While many criticised the manager, some users acknowledged the pressures supervisors often face from upper management. They stressed that leadership involves balancing accountability with compassion. “A manager can question performance, but should not compromise basic humanity when an employee is unwell,” one user commented.