A former contractual worker at Zepto has accused the quick-commerce startup of fostering a toxic work environment marked by abusive management, long hours, and a lack of basic employee support. The claims, detailed in a viral Reddit post, have reignited public concern about the company’s internal practices and treatment of staff.
The individual, a BTech graduate, was hired through a third-party vendor, making them ineligible for on-roll employee benefits. As a result, they reportedly had no access to Zepto’s HR team or any formal complaint system. The post highlighted the troubles of a contractual worker at the company, where employees are overworked, harassed and neglected.
The employee described working up to seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., often without lunch breaks or time off. While team members were allowed occasional breaks, the worker alleged that they were reprimanded for the same, raising concerns about unequal treatment and double standards.
The post also includes disturbing claims of physical intimidation by a manager. Although no physical violence occurred, the worker described constant fear and anxiety due to aggressive behaviour and threatening gestures from supervisors. The emotional toll, they said, left them frozen and helpless at their desk.
On their final day, the worker claims HR showed no understanding when they were unwell, demanding the immediate return of the company laptop despite a reported fever.
These revelations have also drawn renewed attention to past controversies involving Zepto’s leadership. Previous comments by CEO Aadit Palicha, perceived as dismissive of work-life balance, have resurfaced, adding fuel to the ongoing debate around employee well-being at startups.
The allegations highlight growing concerns around contract employment practices, mental health in the workplace, and the need for stronger oversight in India’s startup ecosystem.
