A Zomato warehouse supervisor in Bengaluru has drawn strong criticism after telling local employees that they must learn Hindi if they wish to continue working under him.
In a video that circulated widely, the supervisor, identified as Ashok and originally from Andhra Pradesh, told staff that he does not know Kannada and would communicate only in Hindi. He said those who wanted to work with him should learn the language, adding that he did not care if anyone chose to leave.
When one employee pointed out that they were in Karnataka, Ashok responded that he would still speak only in Hindi and reiterated that staff should learn the language or quit.
The remarks triggered a public backlash. Pro-Kannada activists gathered outside the warehouse, demanding strict action and the supervisor’s removal. A petition was submitted to the Madanayakanahalli police seeking action against him, and a formal complaint was also filed. Police briefly took Ashok into custody to defuse the tense situation.
Following the criticism, Ashok released a video apology in which he spoke in Kannada with folded hands. He expressed regret for his comments and assured that he would not repeat the mistake.