Netizens React to Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal's Shocking Chief of Staff Internship Posting

Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato, has faced significant criticism after posting a job advertisement for a chief of staff position. The role requires the successful candidate to donate ₹20 lakh instead of receiving a salary in the first year. Goyal shared this unusual job offer on his X account, stating: "There is no salary for this role for the first year. You will have to, in fact, pay ₹20 lacs for this opportunity."

The Zomato founder clarified that the entire donation would go to Feeding India, Zomato's non-profit initiative. He also assured that from the second year onwards, the candidate would receive a regular salary exceeding ₹50 LPA. Despite these clarifications, the job posting sparked widespread disapproval online.

Social Media Backlash

The online community reacted strongly against Goyal's job post. Many were shocked by the expectation that candidates should pay ₹20 lakh for the chance to work at one of India's top startups. Critics pointed out that this requirement excludes many Indians who cannot afford such an expense.

Some users likened it to an unpaid internship and expressed concerns about such practices becoming common. Abhishek, an X user, commented on how this move seemed like exploiting workers further by targeting middle-class families with inflated pricing demands. Others highlighted how this condition might limit the applicant pool to those with financial privilege. Aman noted that asking for ₹20 lakh creates a bias towards wealthy candidates, potentially excluding talented individuals without financial backing.

Mohak Mangal echoed similar sentiments, stating that offering zero salary filters candidates based on privilege. He compared it to unpaid internships offered by organisations like the UN, which are inaccessible to those with financial responsibilities.

Job Requirements and Expectations

Apart from affording the hefty donation, applicants need common sense and empathy rather than extensive experience. Goyal emphasised that successful candidates would gain more from this role than any MBA could offer.

Despite these assurances, many remain sceptical about the fairness and accessibility of such job offers. The debate continues as people question whether such practices should be accepted in today's job market.

The controversy surrounding Deepinder Goyal's job posting highlights ongoing discussions about employment practices in India. It raises questions about inclusivity and fairness in recruitment processes within leading companies.

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