KOCHI, KERALA:
A viral video from Kochi showing a man crawling on the floor with a leash around his neck has triggered public anger and official probes. The footage, reportedly from a marketing firm named Keltra, appeared to depict extreme workplace harassment, including claims that employees were forced to lick coins as punishment for not meeting sales targets.
In response, Kerala’s Labour Department ordered an immediate investigation, and the State Human Rights Commission and Kerala State Youth Commission also launched separate inquiries. Labour Minister V Sivankutty called the visuals “shocking and disturbing” and said a detailed report was being sought.
However, in a surprising turn of events, multiple employees of Keltra have come forward to refute the allegations, claiming the video was part of a staged act and not reflective of the company’s work culture.
Claims of a Set-Up
According to police, the video was filmed in the company’s office in Perumbavoor near Kaloor. While initial reports suggested demeaning punishment methods, later statements revealed a different story. Several employees stated that no such incidents ever occurred and that they felt safe in their workplace. They insisted the firm does not impose strict targets and that their pay is commission-based.
The man seen crawling in the video reportedly told police he willingly participated in the act. He claimed the clip was created during a dispute involving a former manager named Manaf, who allegedly orchestrated the scene with new trainees as part of a personal vendetta against the management.
The police, after reviewing statements and evidence, have labeled the video “deceptive” and noted that no formal complaint has been filed so far.
While authorities continue to investigate, the incident has opened a wider discussion on workplace ethics, social media narratives, and the importance of verifying facts before drawing conclusions.
