A Gurgaon-based employee who became the subject of nationwide criticism after his comments during comedian Pranit More’s stand-up show went viral has been dismissed by his company, with the employer confirming that it has severed ties with him following the controversy.

The incident, which sparked intense debate across social media platforms, stemmed from the man's account of a date during which he claimed to have spent Rs 370 on a chicken biryani. According to the viral clip, he said he expected sexual favours in return and was upset when the woman instead asked him to drop her home. The remarks triggered widespread outrage online, with many users calling them misogynistic and inappropriate.

As criticism mounted, the design firm where the man worked identified him as an employee and later announced that he would no longer be associated with the company.

In a video statement that has since circulated widely online, the company's founder said an internal review was conducted after the controversy erupted. The management spoke with team members, including women employees, to assess whether similar concerns had ever surfaced inside the workplace.

According to the employer, no formal complaints or allegations regarding the employee's conduct at work were found during the review. Colleagues reportedly described him as professional, respectful and diligent in his role.

Despite those findings, the company decided to part ways with him, citing the broader impact the controversy was having on the organisation.

The employer noted that while the comments were made outside office premises and in a personal setting, the fallout was affecting the workplace and the company's public image.

After the video drew significant attention, the company issued an additional clarification on social media stories, stating that the employee had already been terminated. It also urged users to stop sending messages demanding action, saying the matter had already been addressed internally.

Several social media users argued that the controversy should have ended with the disciplinary action, while others said the focus should remain on accountability rather than defending the former employee's character.

Apologies follow viral controversy

As the backlash intensified, stand-up comedian Pranit More also responded to the controversy and issued a public apology. The man at the centre of the storm later shared an apology of his own.

However, critics continued to scrutinise his online activity, with some users claiming he appeared to be making light of the incident through subsequent social media posts instead of engaging in meaningful reflection.