IIT Delhi graduate walks away from ₹17 LPA job over no sick leave and 15-minute lunch breaks

A 24-year-old graduate from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has triggered a fresh debate on toxic workplace culture after revealing why he resigned from a high-paying banking job despite drawing nearly ₹17 lakh annually.

Chirag Madaan, who worked in the corporate banking sector, said the decision to quit was not sudden but the result of relentless pressure, excessive working hours, and a steadily worsening work-life balance.

What initially began as a conventional 9-to-5 role gradually turned into far longer days, often stretching from 9 am to 7 pm. According to Madaan, the work schedule also shifted from a five-day week to six days, leaving little time for rest or personal life.

In a now-viral video, he described how even basic breaks became difficult to manage. Lunch hours, he said, were tightly restricted, with employees expected to finish meals within just 10 to 15 minutes because of continuous workload demands.

He also claimed that taking leave was equally difficult, adding that even sick leave required detailed explanations, making it challenging for employees to step away when unwell.

A major source of stress, Madaan said, came from aggressive sales targets. Employees were reportedly expected to close deals worth up to ₹10 crore, while failure to meet goals often led to mounting pressure and repeated performance review cycles. Over time, he said, the constant demands became overwhelming.

His account has struck a chord with many young professionals navigating high-pressure corporate careers. The viral clip has sparked widespread conversations around unrealistic expectations, long working hours, and the urgent need for healthier workplace practices.

Social media reactions poured in soon after. While many praised Madaan for choosing well-being over salary, others shared similar experiences from their own workplaces, calling his story “relatable” and “a reality check.” Several users noted that such environments are far from rare, urging companies to rethink how productivity and success are measured.