In a surprising and controversial move, YesMadam, a Noida-based startup, has reportedly terminated over 100 employees who indicated they were feeling stressed in an internal survey. According to the company’s HR Manager, Ashu Arora Jha, this decision was made to "ensure no one remains stressed at work," a justification that has been met with widespread outrage and disbelief.
Anushka Dutta, a UX Copywriter at YesMadam, voiced her frustration on LinkedIn, stating, "What’s happening at YesMadam? First you conduct a random survey and then fire us overnight because we’re feeling stressed? And not just me, 100 other people have been fired too." This post has resonated with many, sparking a broader discussion about workplace ethics and employee welfare.
The layoffs have sparked social media backlash, with many criticizing the company for its seemingly callous approach to employee well-being. Experts argue that using stress as a criterion for termination can create a toxic work environment where employees are afraid to voice their concerns. This incident underscores the need for businesses to prioritize supportive and empathetic management practices.
YesMadam, known for its at-home beauty services, gained significant attention after appearing on Shark Tank India Season 3 and securing investments from high-profile entrepreneurs like Peyush Bansal, Vineeta Singh, Ritesh Aggarwal, and Aman Gupta. Despite its recent success, the company has yet to release an official statement addressing these allegations.
The abrupt layoffs have left many employees feeling undervalued and blindsided, highlighting the importance of fostering a transparent and supportive work culture. As this story unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the ethical responsibilities that companies have towards their employees.