A Gurgaon-based design company has dismissed its 23-year-old web developer, Himanshu Jangra, after his controversial remarks about a woman during comedian Pranit More’s stand-up show triggered widespread outrage on social media.
The incident occurred last week when Jangra, attending More’s live performance, recounted a date where he spent ₹370 on biryani. He claimed he expected a “return” on the expense and went on to describe coercive behavior towards the woman. His comments, captured during the show, quickly circulated online and were condemned as misogynistic and offensive.
In response to the backlash, Starvik Design’s founder Vivek Vishwakarma issued a statement on Instagram, calling the remarks “offensive” and inconsistent with the company’s values.
He emphasized that the firm could not compromise on workplace ethics or its reputation. Despite colleagues describing Jangra as professional in his work, the company decided to terminate his employment, stating that public conduct reflecting disrespect or coercion could not be tolerated.
The incident has drawn attention to the increasing scrutiny employees face for their conduct beyond the workplace, particularly at a time when social media can rapidly bring such episodes into public view. As criticism mounted online, the company moved quickly to distance itself from the controversy.
The episode also highlights how actions in public settings can have professional repercussions, especially for organisations that place a strong emphasis on workplace culture, values and public trust.
More broadly, the incident has sparked fresh discussions around misogyny, individual accountability and the role of social media in shaping public and corporate responses. For many observers, the company’s decision reflects changing expectations around acceptable behaviour and the consequences that may follow when those standards are breached.