Ola’s artificial intelligence division, Krutrim, is facing a storm of criticism following disturbing claims that one of its employees, Nikhil Somwanshi, died by suicide due to alleged toxic work culture and extreme pressure at the Bengaluru office. The company has denied the allegations, stating that Nikhil was on personal leave at the time of the incident.

Company Responds to Allegations

The controversy erupted after an anonymous Reddit post — seemingly shared by Somwanshi's colleague — accused Krutrim of creating a “traumatic” environment, particularly for freshers. The post alleged that Nikhil, a Machine Learning Engineer who joined the company in August 2023, was forced to take on the workload of two additional employees after they resigned. It also levelled serious accusations against his manager, claiming verbal abuse and poor leadership from a supervisor based in the US.

Krutrim, however, rejected any direct link between Nikhil’s death and workplace conditions. In an official statement to India Today, the company said, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of one of our most talented young employees, Nikhil, on the 8th of May. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with his family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

The company clarified that Nikhil had been on an approved leave of absence during the time of the incident. “Nikhil was on personal leave at the time of the incident. He had reached out to his manager on the 8th of April, expressing that he needed rest, and was promptly granted personal time off. Later, on the 17th of April, he shared that he was feeling better but would benefit from additional rest, and his leave was extended accordingly,” the statement read.

Reddit Post Ignites Online Outrage

The anonymous Reddit post painted a grim picture of the company’s internal work culture, with claims that freshers were being overwhelmed and mistreated. It alleged that Nikhil was “cramped up with work” and that managerial conduct included aggressive language and frequent absences during critical phases of the project.

The post added, “Even after this shocking incident, there has been no behavioural change in people there. I heard other team members saying if they stay anymore here, they are going to end up doing the same.”

These claims have gone viral, leading to an outpouring of anger and concern from netizens, many of whom are now demanding accountability and a formal investigation into the company’s work practices.

Krutrim Says Support Extended to Family

In its response, Krutrim emphasised that it is in touch with the relevant authorities and is cooperating fully. The company stated, “As a company, we are heartbroken by this loss. Nikhil was a valued team member, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and worked with him. We are extending our full support to Nikhil’s family and our employees during this time of grief. We are also in contact with the relevant authorities and will continue to offer our assistance as needed.”

While the company has attempted to distance itself from the claims made online, the incident has raised broader questions about the pressures faced by young tech workers in high-intensity environments. As the post continues to circulate online, calls for a deeper probe into Krutrim’s work culture are only growing louder.