A former employee of multinational oilfield services giant SLB, formerly known as Schlumberger, has filed a formal complaint with the labour commissioner in Pune, alleging he was illegally terminated from his job while actively receiving treatment for thyroid cancer.
The Allegations and Timeline of Events
Santosh Patole, who worked as a facilities manager for the company for over eight years, states that his ordeal began in May 2025 when he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. He underwent treatment at Jupiter Hospital in the Baner area of Pune. According to Patole, he resumed his duties on July 1, 2025, and submitted a "fit to resume work" certificate from the hospital to his employer shortly after.
Shockingly, he alleges that on July 23, 2025, he was served a termination notice. Patole claims this action was taken without any prior warning, showcause notice, or performance-related discussions. He asserts that no disciplinary proceedings were ever initiated against him during his tenure.
The termination letter reportedly cited reasons such as "financial loss," which Patole strongly contests. Backing his performance record, he says he received "outstanding" ratings in his annual appraisals for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Legal Recourse and Official Hearings
Following his termination, Patole pursued multiple avenues for justice. He filed a formal complaint with the office of the labour commissioner in Pune. The first hearing in this case was conducted on December 24, 2025.
Government Labour Officer Kasturi Mahatme confirmed that the second hearing is scheduled for January 7 (Wednesday). At this hearing, the company, SLB, is expected to present its written reply to the allegations. Patole has demanded a thorough inquiry into his dismissal, asking the authorities to seek explanations and relevant records from SLB.
In his complaint, he has sought either reinstatement to his position, corrective action, or compensation for what he deems a wrongful termination during a critical period of medical treatment.
Broader Protests and Human Rights Appeal
Beyond the labour commission, Patole also escalated the matter by lodging a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). In a powerful act of protest, he staged a hunger strike outside the company's office in December 2025 to draw public attention to his plight.
Highlighting his professional background in corporate risk management and HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Level 3 certification, Patole stated that his expertise allowed him to identify compliance gaps in his termination process. This, he says, led him to approach statutory institutions in a structured and lawful manner.
The case has now put a spotlight on corporate practices regarding employee rights during serious health crises and will be closely watched as the legal proceedings unfold in Pune.
