Delhi’s Pollution Crisis Ignites Workplace Debate
A Delhi-based employee’s request to work from home (WFH) during hazardous pollution levels was denied by his employer, who dismissed it with: “Everyone is suffering.” The incident has gone viral, reigniting discussions about employee health, corporate responsibility, and the dire air quality in India’s capital.
Employee’s Health Plea Goes Viral
The anonymous IT employee shared his frustration on social media after his WFH appeal was rejected. “I’ve had persistent headaches and breathing issues with AQI above 400,” he wrote. “But my boss said since all are affected, I must cope.” His post resonated with thousands in Delhi-NCR, where winter AQI often exceeds 500 (“severe+” category).
Company’s Controversial Response
The Gurugram-based firm defended its decision, with HR stating: “Granting WFH for pollution sets an unsustainable precedent.” Critics argue this ignores proven health risks—studies link Delhi’s pollution to reduced productivity (+20% sick leaves) and long-term lung damage.
Caption: Delhi’s skyline obscured by smog. (Image: Reuters)
Doctors Sound the Alarm
“AQI above 300 is a health emergency,” warns Dr. Priya Sharma, AIIMS pulmonologist. “Employers must act as they did in COVID-19.” Yet, <5% of Indian companies have pollution-specific WFH policies.
Public Backlash & Divided Opinions
Social media erupted over the issue:
– Supporters: “If WFH works for COVID, why not pollution?” (@RahulMehra)
– Opponents: “Businesses can’t halt for months yearly.” (@GurugramCEO)
Policy Gaps & Legal Recourse
Labour activists demand government action, citing:
– Section 14, Factories Act: Requires safe workplaces but lacks enforcement.
– Global Precedents: Firms like IBM Delhi offer “smog leave.”
Pro Tips for Employees:
1. Document symptoms with medical proof.
2. Unite colleagues to push for policy changes.
3. File complaints with labour boards if health is ignored.
The Way Forward
With Delhi’s pollution a recurring nightmare, hybrid work models or “smog policies” could bridge employee health and business needs. As one netizen noted: “If we normalize WFH for convenience, why not survival?”
Should companies enforce WFH during toxic air days? Comment below.
— Team NextMinuteNews
