An employee’s complaint about a Rs 11,000 salary deduction over repeated late arrivals has drawn more criticism than sympathy on social media.
In a video posted on Instagram, Swathi detailed the financial strain caused by the cut as she claimed that Rs 11,000 was deducted from her February salary due to late arrivals, despite prior discussions with her employer.
In the clip titled “This is what salary day feels like in corporate India,” Swathi said that the deduction came as a shock as she had already spoken to authorities at her workplace about her delays and was under the impression that her situation would be considered.
“Rs 11,000 is not a small amount. It makes a lot of difference,” she said, adding that such deductions can significantly impact those who are fully dependent on their monthly income. Swathi justified her delays by saying that unlike many colleagues who live nearby and have personal transport, she relies on public transport, which often causes delays.
In the caption accompanying her video, Swathi said that while she understands the existence of company policies and attendance rules, the financial impact of deductions goes beyond numbers.
“Salary day is supposed to feel relieving. But deductions don’t feel like numbers. They feel like survival,” she said.
She clarified that her post was not intended as an act of retaliation against her employer but rather an attempt to share the reality faced by many in private-sector jobs. “This isn’t revenge quitting. This is just the reality of salary deductions in private jobs in India,” she said, adding that she is already serving her notice period, which adds to the uncertainty.
Viewers, however, questioned her punctuality and defended workplace attendance rules, shifting the focus from the deduction itself to issues of discipline and accountability.
Several sided with the employer, arguing that punctuality is a basic expectation.
One of the users explained in the comments section that despite living 1.5 hours away from their workplace, they managed to arrive on time every day, suggesting that it ultimately comes down to personal discipline.
Questioning the frequency of delays, one of the users said coming in late repeatedly indicates a need for better time management.