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A Pune-based multinational company faces widespread criticism after firing an employee diagnosed with cancer. Santosh Patole, who worked eight years at the firm, has begun a peaceful hunger strike demanding justice, sparking public outrage and debates on corporate ethics.
Pune MNC fires employee undergoing cancer treatment.
Pune: Santosh Patole, an experienced Facility Manager working at a Pune-based multinational company, has become the center of an online controversy after being terminated while undergoing treatment for thyroid nodule isthmus cancer. The incident occurred at the firm’s office in the Commerce Zone of Yerawada, where Patole had served for eight years and accumulated over two decades of experience in the field.
He was diagnosed in April during the company’s annual health check-up and took medical leave in May and June for surgery and treatment. During this time, the company initially covered his medical expenses.
On July 23, while preparing to return to work after receiving medical clearance from his doctors, Patole was served a termination letter. The company stated that his dismissal was due to a decision he allegedly made that could have caused a loss of Rs 2.5 to 3 crore. Patole, however, claimed the allegations were baseless, pointing out that the project in question had not even been implemented. He also said the company refused to hear his explanation before terminating his employment.
The abrupt termination not only left him jobless but also cut off the medical support he was relying on for his cancer treatment, exacerbating the financial and emotional strain during a critical period.
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In response to the dismissal, Santosh Patole has begun a peaceful hunger strike outside the company’s Pune office. Images circulating on social media show him sitting inside a tent with banners protesting the company’s actions. One banner read, “#WhySLBWhy? Cancer Patient Fired By US MNC Begins Hunger Strike. Employees Are Humans, Not Numbers,” reflecting the frustration of both the employee and supporters regarding corporate insensitivity.
The strike has quickly gained attention online, drawing sympathy and calls for action to support Patole.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage on social media platforms. Users criticized the company for its lack of empathy and disregard for employee welfare. Many questioned the ethical standards of large corporations and emphasized the importance of supporting employees during medical emergencies.
Several posts compared Patole’s case with similar incidents, where employees diagnosed with serious illnesses received little to no assistance from their companies, highlighting systemic issues in corporate India regarding employee rights and medical leave policies.
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Many social media users encouraged Patole to seek help from local labour authorities, including the IT labour cell in Pune, which has assisted employees in similar disputes. Advocates have emphasized that legal recourse and public support can help ensure that he receives both financial and moral backing during this challenging period.
The case has reignited discussions about corporate responsibility, employee welfare, and ethical treatment of staff facing serious health issues.
