Kerala workplace horror: Employees forced to crawl, lick coins over missed sales targets

The Kerala Labour Department has launched an investigation into allegations of severe workplace abuse at a private marketing firm in Kochi, where employees were reportedly subjected to cruel and degrading treatment for failing to meet sales targets, according to media reports.

Manorama News reported that Labour Minister V. Sivankutty ordered an immediate probe after a disturbing video surfaced online.

The footage showed employees being chained, forced to crawl on all fours like dogs, lick coins off the floor, and endure other humiliating acts. Employees were also allegedly made to wear belts around their necks, consume rotten fruit, and drink water in an animal-like manner. In some instances, they were stripped and forced to simulate animal urination indoors.

Initially, the incident was believed to have occurred at the company’s Kaloor office. However, police later stated that the firm’s owner denied this, claiming the video was not filmed there. “Preliminary findings suggest the incident may have occurred at an office in Perumbavoor,” a Palarivattom police official told the media.

A Labour Department official confirmed to Manorama News that an inquiry is underway. The victims, involved in door-to-door marketing, reportedly faced abuse for underperformance. They were paid meagre salaries—between Rs6,000 and Rs8,000—and promised promotions that never materialized. 

Perumbavoor police said they have received complaints from employees alleging both mental and physical harassment. While no formal case has been registered so far, police noted that the firm’s owner is already out on bail in a separate sexual harassment case.

Minister Sivankutty strongly condemned the incident and assured strict action against those responsible. Meanwhile, Youth Congress activists staged a protest march to the firm’s Kaloor office, demanding justice for the victims.