Allegations of workplace exploitation at a startup have triggered widespread discussion online after a software engineer claimed that members of an AI team were made to sleep on office floors during a high-pressure project and later dismissed without receiving their salaries.
The claims were shared in a viral post on Reddit’s developers forum and have not been independently verified.
Employees allege extreme working conditions
According to the post, several fresh graduates working on artificial intelligence and computer vision projects were subjected to intense workloads during May 2026.
As deadlines approached, employees were allegedly instructed to bring personal belongings and remain in the office overnight. The company reportedly provided sleeping bags and expected team members to sleep on the floor to continue working around the clock.
The employee claimed that some staff spent multiple nights at the office despite the absence of shower facilities and adequate arrangements.
Sudden termination alleged
The post further alleged that the AI team was initially placed on what management described as “paid operational leave” while organisational restructuring was being reviewed.
When employees returned to work, they were reportedly moved to a separate floor before being verbally informed that their employment had been terminated with immediate effect.
The team also claimed they were told that salaries for May would not be paid despite having worked throughout the month.
Employees seek legal options
According to the post, no formal termination letters, warnings or performance-related notices were issued. Employees alleged that requests for written documentation were rejected.
The affected workers reportedly preserved appointment letters, salary records, attendance logs and internal communications and are considering approaching labour authorities regarding unpaid wages and termination procedures.
Social media reacts strongly
The allegations drew strong reactions online, with many users urging the employees to seek legal remedies and file formal complaints with labour authorities.
Several commenters expressed shock over the reported working conditions, arguing that expecting employees to sleep in an office without basic facilities crossed acceptable workplace standards.
Others encouraged the affected professionals to pursue opportunities with larger and more established organisations offering stronger employee protections.
The allegations have reignited conversations around startup work culture, employee rights and the importance of maintaining ethical workplace practices in India’s fast-growing technology sector.