At a time when discussions on work-life balance is a hot topic, a post by an employee who refused to work during his leaves has gone viral on the internet. Why? Well, the employee claims that his manager forced him to work on his day-offs and when he didn’t comply, he was put on Performance Improvement Plan (PIP)!
The viral social media post has reignited the conversation around toxic workplaces— and it’s struck a chord with many people. The post, which was originally shared on Reddit, details one man’s troubling experience at a new company where he says he was unfairly placed on a PIP just five months into the job for not being available to work during his approved leaves.
According to the post, the employee claimed his manager expected him to be constantly available— even during his paid time off which included weekends and leaves. When he refused saying he will be travelling, things quickly went downhill. The manager, reportedly dismissive of his refusal, responded with a snide remark: “I’d like to see that.”
Soon after returning from his leaves, the employee noticed his manager’s attitude had turned cold towards him. Later that day, the HR called with a shocking news that he had been put on a PIP due to “poor performance.”
In the same Reddit post, the employee also shared more about the company’s culture. The organisation follows a six-day work week, with his manager expecting employees to also put in 5–6 hours of work even on Sundays, the man claimed. “We’re constantly chasing unrealistic deadlines,” he added.
He further questioned, “Is this even legal? Can companies really do this? Don’t employees have any protection from such toxic treatment?”
His post quickly picked up traction online, and many netizens expressed their disbelief, calling the treatment “unfair” and “disgraceful.” One user said, “Document everything—your performance reviews, goals, and feedback. And start looking for a better job ASAP.” While another said, “This is why people move abroad. At least managers there don’t question your right to take time off.”
What are your views on this particular incident? Do you think the employee was right to neglect work when his peers were complying or was the manager being too harsh on him? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Gold rate today: Gold June futures at MCX have seen a correction of Rs 4,000/10 grams (4%), opening at Rs 95,316/10 grams on Tuesday, following last week’s record high of Rs 99,358/10 grams.
Silver May futures experienced a modest decline, beginning at Rs 96,255/kg, representing a decrease of Rs 209 or 0.22%.
The decline in gold prices corresponds to a strengthening dollar, as there exists an inverse relationship between gold prices and dollar values.
This shift occurred after US President Donald Trump altered his position on reciprocal tariffs, delaying their implementation until July, whilst adopting a less confrontational stance towards China and confirming his intention to retain Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
The US Dollar Index, DXY, demonstrated positive movement, reaching 99.13, an increase of 0.12 or 0.12%.
Also Read | RBI’s gold buying spree continues! 57.5 tonnes added to gold reserves; second highest in 7 years
In anticipation of Akshaya Tritiya 2025, retail activity remains robust, with significant customer presence, especially in southern India where the festival holds cultural significance, according to Prithviraj Kothari, Managing Director of RiddiSiddhi Bullions.
According to an ET report, he observed that elevated prices have influenced purchasing patterns, with customers preferring lighter jewellery and coins over heavy pieces. Retailers are adapting by introducing new collections, reducing making charges and promoting silver alternatives.
The festival period traditionally drives domestic sales significantly, with Indian consumers’ gold purchasing reaching its highest levels, representing both acquisition and auspicious significance.
“We look forward to a 10-15% spike in jewellery sales this season, supported by robust buying sentiments and price dynamics,” stated Colin Shah, MD, Kama Jewelry.
As gold prices reach unprecedented levels, consumers are encouraged to consider purchasing jewellery now, as further price increases are anticipated in the coming period, according to Shah.
Gold and silver markets showed positive movement in both domestic and international trading on Monday. The June futures for gold settled at Rs 96,025 per 10 grams, increasing by 1.09%, whilst silver May futures closed at Rs 96,464 per kilogram, gaining 0.02%.
Monday’s price increase was attributed to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following a terrorist incident in Jammu and Kashmir, which led to increased safe-haven investment in precious metals.
Also Read | Gold prices hit Rs 1 lakh! What’s the outlook for gold and should you buy or sell the yellow metal? Explained
“Gold and silver prices strengthened following the Iranian port attack casualties reaching 70. Pakistan’s nuclear threats against India have elevated global market risk sentiment, leading to increased safe-haven investment in precious metals,” stated Manoj Kumar Jain from Prithvifinmart Commodity Research.
“This week, we anticipate continued volatility in gold and silver prices due to dollar index fluctuations and upcoming U.S. economic data releases. Gold is expected to maintain support at $3,200 per troy ounce, while silver should hold at $31.40 per troy ounce on weekly closings,” he continued.
Physical Market Gold Rates
Delhi Gold Prices
Standard gold (22 carat): Rs 57,672/8 grams
Pure gold (24 carat): Rs 61,496/8 grams
Mumbai Gold Prices
Standard gold (22 carat): Rs 57,176/8 grams
Pure gold (24 carat): Rs 60,544/8 grams
Chennai Gold Prices
Standard gold (22 carat): Rs 56,736/8 grams
Pure gold (24 carat): Rs 60,488/8 grams
Hyderabad Gold Prices
Standard gold (22 carat): Rs 57,144/8 grams
Pure gold (24 carat): Rs 60,920/8 grams

Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, BSE Sensex and Nifty50, opened in green on Tuesday. While BSE Sensex went above 80,600, Nifty50 crossed 24,450. At 9:23 AM, BSE Sensex was trading at 80,605.31, up 387 points or 0.48%. Nifty50 was at 24,441.45, up 113 points or 0.46%.
Indian equities showed significant gains on Monday, influenced by multiple factors including no fresh developments in India-Pakistan relations, robust corporate performance and positive movement in major stocks like Reliance. Market observers anticipate continued stock-specific movements due to ongoing fourth quarter results announcements.
The S&P 500 remained largely stable on Monday during volatile trading, affected by large-cap stocks as investors anticipated crucial economic indicators and results from major US corporations.
Asian equities opened cautiously as market participants awaited corporate earnings reports and economic data releases this week to assess the impact of President Donald Trump’s trade policies.
Gold rates declined on Tuesday due to improving trade relations between the United States and its trading associates, reducing its safe-haven demand, whilst market participants waited for US economic indicators to evaluate the Federal Reserve’s strategy.
The US dollar showed minimal recovery on Tuesday from significant losses as uncertainty persisted regarding trade war de-escalation with China, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicating that China needs to initiate discussions.
Oil prices decreased in early Asian trade on Tuesday as market participants reduced their demand outlook, influenced by the continuing trade dispute between the United States and China, the largest global economies.
Foreign portfolio investors shifted to net purchases of Rs 2,474 crore on Monday. Domestic institutional investors offloaded shares valued at Rs 2,818 crore.

Fitness enthusiasts, especially those who are trying to lose or gain weight, are obsessed with the weighing scale. While checking your progress is crucial, it shouldn’t be based only on the numbers on the weighing scale. Why? Because the scale can be a tricky tool. So, is there a right way to measure your body weight? Yes, when you weigh yourself matters. Fitness and nutrition coach Ashley DiGiacomo Schwartz (link shared below) has shared when you should weigh yourself, if you want to have an accurate understanding of your progress.

The coach emphasizes that numbers don’t always tell the full story. “If you’re constantly stepping on the scale and getting discouraged, it might be because you’re weighing yourself at the worst possible times,” she shares in a post shared on Instagram. Before you understand when to weigh yourself, you should know when not to.
When not to weigh yourself?

Post-workout: People tend to weigh themselves soon after they complete their workout. It’s natural to step on the weighing scale and look for numbers, but it is important to understand progress isn’t instant. The coach notes that post-workout, the numbers on the weighing scale might be up from drinking water and eating post-workout, or down from sweating it all out. “Either way, it’s mostly just water weight, not real fat loss or gain,” she shares.
After a big meal: Just indulged in a hearty dinner? Skip the scale. The scale would tick upward. “You’re full. Of course, the number is going to be higher. That doesn’t mean you gained fat—it means you have food sitting in your stomach,” she adds.

During your period or luteal phase: The fitness coach also notes that stepping on a weighing scale while you are on your period won’t be a great idea. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, particularly in the luteal phase, can cause bloating, inflammation, and water retention. And as a result, the numbers could go up. “And let’s be honest—you’re already emotional, so don’t make it worse by getting mad at the scale,” she advises.

Right before bed: After a full day of eating, drinking, and moving, your weight is naturally higher at night. Schwartz emphasizes skipping the scale right before bed, because, ‘that number means nothing’.
After a high-sodium or high-carb meal: If you ate pizza, sushi, or Chinese takeout, do not weigh yourself. “Whatever it is, sodium and carbs both hold onto water. Not fat. So if you step on the scale after a salty or carb-heavy meal, yes, it might spike up… but it’s just water weight,” she says.

When should you weigh yourself?

So the question really is, what’s the right time to step onto that scale? The fitness coach recommends weighing yourself in the morning. “First thing in the morning, after using the bathroom, completely naked,” she stresses.

Now that the ‘when’ is sorted, how often should you weigh yourself? She asks to keep it consistent. For those who prefer weekly weigh-ins, she suggests choosing a midweek day, like Wednesday, to avoid the influence of weekend indulgences. She also advises against taking progress photos after any of these times, as ‘it’s not helpful and it will just mess with your mindset’.
Read the Instagram post here:

A day meant for learning and laughter turned into a nightmare in Chatham, Illinois, when a woman barreled her Jeep through a daycare and after-school camp on Monday, killing four children and leaving a trail of devastation in her wake.
Illinois State Police said the crash occurred around 3:20 pm (local time) at the YNOT After School Camp, just south of Springfield.
Without warning, the vehicle tore through the east side of the building, mowing down three victims outside and striking another inside before smashing out through the west wall, leaving behind a gaping hole, crushed debris, and stunned witnesses.
All four victims, believed to be between 4 and 18 years old, died from their injuries. Six others were hurt, at least one of whom was airlifted by helicopter in critical condition, authorities said.
“This is a terrible tragedy that has rocked our entire community,” the Chatham Police Department said in a statement posted on Facebook, pleading for prayers for the families involved.
The driver, a woman who has not been officially identified, believed to be a 38-year-old lady from Springfield, was alone in the Jeep and somehow escaped serious injury. She was transported to a hospital for evaluation.
Investigators suspect DUI, according to police, but the motive and cause behind the rampage remain unclear. Charges are expected once the investigation progresses.
Adding to the public fury, a photo believed to show the suspect, captured from behind as she was taken into custody, quickly spread online, showing a woman in a gray sweatshirt being led away by officers.
Drone footage and on-the-ground video showed a scene of utter chaos: shattered walls, twisted furniture, police tape fluttering in the wind, and dozens of emergency vehicles surrounding what used to be a place of safety for children.
Governor JB Pritzker said his administration was “closely monitoring the tragedy,” posting, “Let’s wrap our arms around Chatham tonight.”
The Illinois State Police and Chatham Police Department are now combing through evidence to understand what led to the horrific crash — one that shattered lives and left an entire town asking how such violence could strike so close to home.

NEW DELHI: As it looks to mobilise international opinion against Pakistan’s support to cross-border terrorism, the govt briefed the Taliban regime in Afghanistan about the common neighbour’s links with the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Sources said Taliban’s acting foreign minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi strongly condemned the attack and underscored the need to punish the perpetrators.
Muttaqi met an Indian delegation headed by MEA joint secretary Anand Prakash. The visit came amid soaring India-Pakistan tensions over the Pahalgam attack.
India’s ties with the Taliban dispensation in Kabul have improved dramatically in the recent past, contrary to the fear in Aug 2021 – after the Taliban took over Kabul – that the armed militia would act as a proxy govt run by the ISI.
Pakistan’s ties have seen a steady deterioration, mainly because of the activities of Pakistan Taliban (TTP).

‘India ready to restart work on Afghan projects, invest in infra’

The Taliban, in fact, had categorically condemned the Pahalgam attack last week too, saying such incidents undermined efforts to ensure regional security and stability. Given the current circumstances, Afghanistan is unlikely to allow Pakistan the “strategic depth” it has always sought in the country in the event of a military conflict with India.
Prakash was in Kabul on Sunday to review progress in bilateral ties and was reported to have conveyed to Muttaqi that India was ready to restart work on its projects in the country and also invest in other infrastructure projects. The Taliban have on several occasions in the past few years assured Indian officials of enough security to allow them to work fearlessly in the country.
As per Kabul, the two sides discussed bilateral political relations, trade, transit and recent regional political developments and Muttaqi again underlined the need for normal issuance of Indian visas to Afghan businessmen, patients and students.

Muttaqi emphasised the expansion of diplomatic and economic relations between Afghanistan and India and stated that there were currently good opportunities for investment in Afghanistan. He encouraged Indian investors to take advantage of these opportunities and invest in the country, according to an Afghan readout, while seeking facilitation of movement of people between Afghanistan and India.
Prakash, according to Afghanistan, said India valued its relations with Afghanistan and hoped to further expand ties in various areas.
“He mentioned that India will continue its cooperation with Afghanistan and wishes to invest in some infrastructure projects, as well as resume work on some projects that have been stalled for some time,” the readout said.
Both sides stressed on expanding relations, facilitating exchange of delegation.

BENGALURU: Karnataka high court constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to probe data theft at NewSpace Research and Technologies Private Limited by former employees of the drone manufacturing company.
The matter will now be reinvestigated by the SIT, headed by DGP Pranab Mohanty. IPS officers Bhushan Gulab Rao Borase and Nisha James will be the other members of the team.
In his order, Justice M Nagaprasanna said that the state govt should hand over the investigation right away to the SIT, which will have to submit a report within three months,
NewSpace sought an SIT to probe its complaint to police that its former employees stole data and started their own company, compromising national security.
The govt’s advocate submitted that the earlier investigation officer was embroiled in a corruption case and a new officer took charge. He said the high court can monitor the probe.
Justice Nagaprasanna noted that the petitioner has a huge clientele including national security stakeholders like the Indian Army, Air Force, Navy, BEL, HAL, and DRDO, and, that, all its contracts are highly sensitive. The stolen information pertains to a cutting-edge unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
The judge also expressed surprise as to how Prabhat Sharma, former vice-president of NewSpace, who was arrested, was issued a “notice for appearance”. The judge added that it is only a “paper arrest.”
What should have been custodial interrogation ended up in a mere appearance before the investigating officer, giving rise to doubts of fake investigation, Justice Nagaprasanna observed.
“The subject crime has the colour of cyber espionage. Investigations into such crimes demand not merely procedural competence but an amalgamation of technical expertise and forensic acumen. I have no manner of doubt that an ordinary probe would amount to a miscarriage of justice,” the judge said.

NEW DELHI: Security tensions and terror attacks on India have been taking a heavy toll on Pakistani patients desperate for advanced treatment across the border with the issuance of visas crashing from over 1,600 in 2016 to barely over 200 in 2024. It could shudder to a halt altogether after the latest terrorist atrocity.
A significant disruption came in 2017 with the clash over Indian citizen Kulbhushan Jadhav, whom Pakistan had convicted as an Indian spy, refusing to release him despite a full-blown diplomatic crisis and India urging his release.

The medical visas issued to Pakistani nationals in 2016 were 1,678, but the number fell sharply after the Jadhav episode.
However, things got complicated further in 2019 as India was rocked by the Pulwama terror attack which brought the two countries to the brink of an armed confrontation. Between 2019 and 2024, data available with TOI shows, only 1,228 medical visas were issued to Pakistani nationals – 554 in 2019, 97 in 2020, 96 in 2021, 145 in 2022, 111 in 2023 and 225 in 2024.
In the wake of fresh escalation in the already fraught relationship following the Pahalgam terror attack, healthcare industry experts say the latest tit-for-tat measures between the two countries may sound the death of medical tourism from Pakistan to India, at least in the foreseeable future. Medical visas issued to Pakistani nationals will be valid only till 29 April 2025, the ministry of external affairs announced last Thursday in the wake of the Pahalgam attack.
In the aftermath of sentencing of Jadhav in 2017, govt had announced new rules for issuance of medical visas to Pakistani nations which mandated a recommendation letter from adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, to process genuine and urgent cases.
“Patients from Pakistan used to visit India mostly for advanced surgeries such as liver transplant and treatment of birth defects that aren’t widely available in their country and would cost a lot in other developed nations such as the US or the UK. But in the last six to seven years, the numbers have reduced drastically and now after the Pahalgam incident it is unlikely to go up anytime soon,” said an official of a medical travel assistance company.
“Until 8-9 years ago, many patients from Pakistan came to us for liver transplantation every month. However, their numbers have dwindled over time. We have transplanted just two patients from there in the past year – the last one seven months ago,” Dr Arvinder Soin, chairman and chief surgeon, Medanta Institute of Liver Transplantation, said.
A source at Fortis healthcare also confirmed that Pakistani nationals visiting their hospitals for treatment has reduced significantly over the years. “We have only had a few Pakistani embassy officials visiting us for routine health issues recently,” the source said. Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Delhi said they do not have any Pakistani patient under treatment at the moment.