Zepto, the fast-growing quick-commerce startup, is facing serious allegations of fostering a toxic work environment, following claims made by a former contractual employee.
The accusations, detailed in a widely circulated Reddit post, describe long working hours, verbal intimidation, and a lack of HR support, raising concerns about the company’s workplace culture and employee well-being.
The controversy has reignited discussions about contract employment practices and the mental health impact of high-pressure startup environments.
Zepto has responded by stating that the individual was employed through a third-party vendor and was not on its official payroll.
Allegations on Zepto of Abuse and Overwork
The former worker, a B.Tech graduate, described their experience at Zepto as “psychological warfare”, citing relentless work hours and aggressive management tactics.
According to the post, employees were expected to work six to seven days a week, often from 9 AM to 8 PM or later, with no lunch breaks or holidays.
The worker also alleged unequal treatment, stating that while team members were occasionally allowed breaks, they were reprimanded for taking time off.
The post further detailed physical intimidation, with a manager allegedly making threatening hand gestures, though no actual violence occurred.
Lack of HR Support and Employee Isolation
One of the most concerning aspects of the allegations is the absence of institutional support.
Because the worker was hired through a third-party vendor, they were not part of Zepto’s official payroll.
As a result, they had no access to the company’s HR team or any formal complaint mechanisms.
On their final working day, the employee claimed that HR displayed no empathy, disregarding their condition.
Despite being unwell with a fever, they were ordered to return the company laptop immediately.
Zepto’s Response and Industry Backlash
Zepto has denied direct involvement, stating that the issue stemmed from a third-party vendor rather than its official workforce.
The allegations have raised widespread concerns about workplace culture in India’s startup ecosystem, bringing employee well-being into focus.
In particular, they highlight issues surrounding contract employment and worker rights, prompting discussions about industry standards.
The controversy has brought renewed attention to past remarks made by Zepto CEO Aadit Palicha regarding workplace culture.
His comments were previously criticized for dismissing work-life balance, sparking further debate amid the current allegations.
These statements have further fueled the debate on employee well-being in high-growth startups.
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