Top of the Class, Bottom of the Heap: NIT Ace Laid Off Despite Paying ₹30L in Taxes

A heart-wrenching LinkedIn post by a topper of NIT who has just lost his lucrative job in a technology firm has caused a stir, opening up national controversy over employability, mental wellbeing, and a lack of systemic support for India's super achievers. The engineer, who claims to have contributed over ₹30 lakh in taxes, was clearly shaken by having received "zero support" following his layoff, admitting to having battled depression.

 

Key Highlights:

 

Emotional Appeal: The blog narrates the emotional cost of abrupt job loss, the topper talking of anxiety, self-esteem, and help-seeking stigma.

 

Financial Contribution, No Safety Net: Despite heavy tax contributions, the individual refers to the absence of unemployment insurance, career counseling, or mental health coverage for workers who are laid off in India.

 

Viral Reaction: The article has received thousands of reactions, with the netizens showing solidarity, sharing similar experiences, and demanding immediate reforms in the welfare of employees and mental health services.

 

Expert Opinion: HR professionals and psychologists underscore the necessity of robust support systems like counseling, reskilling, and government-funded safety nets.

 

Outlook: The widely popular narrative places emphasis on the requirement that India needs to build stronger social safety nets, de-stigmatize mental illness, and create comprehensive support systems for professionals experiencing career failure.

 

Sources: LinkedIn, Times of India, Hindustan Times