An Indian company has sparked online backlash after requiring employees who score below 90% on internal training tests to handwrite the entire test 50 times outside working hours.
At a Glance
- Employees must rewrite all test questions by hand if they score below 90%
- The test in question had 33 questions, with one staffer scoring 82%
- The policy was revealed via a Reddit post and quickly went viral
- The company claims the measure improves accuracy and focus
- Critics say it mirrors outdated school punishments and wastes time
A Throwback to School Days
The controversial policy came to light when a Reddit user shared a photo of an internal notice detailing the punishment. In the case that drew attention, an employee scored 82% on a 33-question test, triggering the requirement to rewrite the entire exam 50 times by hand. The writing must be done outside of work hours and is considered an “initiative to build focus and discipline.”
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While repetitive writing is a familiar punishment for many from their school days, its application in a professional environment is rare. The approach has been defended by the employer as a method to reinforce learning and reduce mistakes. However, critics argue it is both time-consuming and demoralizing.
Public Reaction and Debate
The viral post triggered thousands of comments, with many comparing the rule to authoritarian school discipline. Some users joked about the physical strain of writing so much, while others questioned whether the punishment violated labor laws, given it requires unpaid after-hours work.
Human resources professionals have noted that such policies risk damaging morale and retention, particularly among younger employees accustomed to more collaborative and supportive workplace cultures. They also warn that public exposure of such practices can harm a company’s reputation.
Potential Implications
Though this incident is isolated, it has fueled a wider discussion about corporate discipline methods and the balance between performance accountability and employee dignity. In some cases, unconventional policies may achieve short-term results but create long-term resentment, ultimately impacting productivity and workplace cohesion.
Whether this company will revise its rule remains uncertain, but the online backlash may pressure management to reconsider its approach to training and correction.
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