Workplace mistreatment can take many forms, from harassment and discrimination to undue pressure and denial of basic rights. A recent case has once again brought attention to the devastating impact of workplace harassment.
The family of Jolly Madhu, a section officer (administration) at the Coir Board of India, has accused senior officials of workplace harassment, which they claim led to her death on Monday, 10 February 2025.
Jolly, 56, was a resident of Vennala in Kochi. She had been working with the Coir Board for over 30 years.
On 31 January, she collapsed at home while writing an apology letter, allegedly under pressure from the Board’s secretary. She was admitted to a private hospital and placed on ventilator support following a cerebral hemorrhage. Despite medical efforts, she passed away.
Her family alleged that constant harassment at work took a toll on her health. Jolly was a cancer survivor, yet her medical leave requests were repeatedly denied. Officials reportedly ignored recommendations from the medical board advising against her transfer due to health concerns. She was abruptly relocated to Rajamahendravaram (Rajahmundry) in Andhra Pradesh. Additionally, her salary was withheld for five months, worsening her stress and adding to her woes.
Relatives claimed that Jolly was being punished for raising concerns about workplace mistreatment. Instead of receiving support, she faced increased pressure from senior officials. Her family believes this harassment led to her deteriorating health and eventual death.
Before her passing, her elder son, Mahesh Michael, shared a message on social media. He described his mother as a fighter who had battled cancer and widowhood with resilience. However, the struggle she never expected was against the very organisation she had served for decades. He highlighted how her transfer was an act of retaliation for exposing corruption. Despite her ill health, she was denied medical leave and her salary was stopped. Her repeated pleas for help were ignored.
On 31 January, while drafting a final plea for mercy, she collapsed. Her last written words expressed her fear and hesitation to speak to the Chairman.
When the family informed Coir Board officials about Jolly’s critical condition, they reportedly asked for news alerts in English or translated reports before taking action. This delayed any potential intervention.
After Jolly suffered the aneurysm, doctors at Amrita Hospital observed that such a condition typically occurs in individuals over 70. In her case, extreme stress was identified as the primary cause. The family now holds senior Coir Board officials responsible for her untimely death and has lodged a formal complaint with the Board’s secretary, demanding justice.
