Kochi: A woman employee who filed a workplace harassment complaint against the Kochi headquarters of the Union government-run Coir Board has died. Jolly Madhu, a 56-year-old Section Officer, passed away after suffering from a cerebral haemorrhage. She was in a critical condition and receiving treatment.

The family claims that the cerebral haemorrhage was a result of continuous harassment and mental pressure, including alleged mistreatment by the Chairman of the Board and others.

Jolly, who had worked at the Coir Board for over 30 years, passed away after being admitted to a private hospital with a critical condition. Her family believes that her cerebral haemorrhage resulted from ongoing mental harassment and mistreatment by senior officials at the Coir Board, particularly the Chairman.

Allegations

The family claims that Jolly faced relentless mental pressure at the workplace, which they argue led to her health deterioration. They accuse the Coir Board of not paying her salary for five months and filing false charges against her with the Vigilance Department. Additionally, they allege that her request for medical leave was denied, worsening her condition.

Jolly’s brother, Lalichan, claimed that other employees at the Coir Board are also facing similar pressures. He told Mathrubhumi News that it was through these colleagues that the full extent of the workplace harassment came to light.

The family has raised allegations against the Coir Board’s former Secretary and Chairman, claiming that they subjected Jolly to psychological stress after she refused to sign certain files. These officials are accused of deliberately hindering her career progress by blocking her promotion. Despite these challenges, Jolly rose to the position of Section Officer. However, the family believes that mental harassment continued throughout her tenure.

Cancer survivor 

Jolly, who had previously survived cancer, was reportedly forced to endure extreme workplace stress despite her medical history. Her brother claimed that Jolly was moved from Kochi to Hyderabad, with her promotion withheld, for refusing to be complicit in corruption. This action allegedly followed her complaint to the Prime Minister, which led to further threats and intimidation. Jolly, however, did not share the full scope of her struggles with her family, who learned about the situation through other employees.

Jolly’s family has pledged to continue their fight for justice and will pursue further legal action to hold the responsible parties accountable.