Ola Krutrim Engineer Dies by Suicide; Reddit Post Alleges ‘Extreme Work Pressure’

On May 8, Krutrim's young engineer employed at Ola's AI division committed suicide, reportedly as a result of excessive work pressure. The incident was made public when a Reddit post that described the events went viral and raised significant concerns about the company's work culture.

The worker, Nikhil Somwanshi, had just been with Krutrim for ten months and was a recent graduate of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Two weeks before his passing, Somwanshi had ceased attending the office, citing mental health issues, according to a former Ola Krutrim employee who spoke with a media channel.

Why Nikhil took this Step?

According to a spokesperson for Ola Krutrim, the company is extremely devastated by the untimely death of Nikhil, one of its most gifted young workers. During this extremely trying time, the company's thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, and loved ones.

Nikhil was on personal leave at the time of the incident, the official added. He claimed that his leave was extended on April 17 after he disclosed that he was feeling better but would still benefit from more rest. The Reddit article that went viral further portrayed Krutrim's workplace culture in a negative light.

Nikhil was allegedly a member of a three-person team overseeing a crucial project. He was left to handle the entire workload once the other two members left.

Rajkiran, a senior manager, was also named in the post for reportedly berating staff members, particularly new hires. Additionally, Rajkiran is accused of verbally abusing staff members. He reportedly handled calls from a distance while based in the US, leaving the Bengaluru team to handle the operational burden.

Ex-Employees Voicing About Abusive Behaviour of Rajkiran

An ex-employee who said Rajkiran lacked people management abilities supported the claims made in the post. Rajkiran yells at staff members before vanishing. Meeting verbal abuse was traumatising.

The present staff has been asked not to speak to the police or media, the former employee, who has previously worked with Somwanshi, told a media site.

According to an ex-employee, another top manager at Krutrim even instructed people during a session after his death that no one would discuss the occurrence and that anyone who approached him should send them to Ola's legal team. Many workers are upset because they believe there is not enough accountability.

According to a Reddit thread, nothing has changed despite this catastrophe. No introspection. Nothing but quiet. The news is being suppressed by the authorities. According to Ola, the company is devastated by this loss.

Everyone who knew and collaborated with Nikhil will be greatly saddened by his departure. He was a valued team member. They continued by confirming that the company is offering Nikhil's family and its staff its undivided support at this difficult time.

The business is also in communication with the appropriate authorities and will keep providing support when required.