Man In China Sues Company For Firing Him For Napping & Wins RM215,000 In Compensation
Zhang was caught napping at his desk.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 26 Nov 2024, 12:16 PM
A Chinese court has ruled in favour of a man who was dismissed for taking a one-hour nap at work
The man, identified only as Zhang, was awarded 350,000 yuan (RM215,000) in compensation.
His case ignited widespread debate on workplace policies.
According to the South China Morning Post, Zhang had worked for 20 years as a department manager at a chemical company in Taixing, Jiangsu province.
Surveillance footage showed Zhang napping at his desk the day after a late-night work trip
Despite his exemplary record, the company cited this as a serious violation of its zero-tolerance discipline policy and terminated his contract with union approval.
Zhang filed a lawsuit, arguing the dismissal was unjust.
The Taixing People's Court agreed, noting that while employers can dismiss staff for policy violations, such actions require significant justification, including evidence of harm caused.
Judge Ju Qi highlighted that Zhang's nap was a first-time offence that caused no measurable damage
The court also considered Zhang's long tenure, promotions, and consistent performance, determining the dismissal was disproportionate.
The company was ordered to pay compensation for its overly harsh actions.
The ruling has sparked passionate discussions online. While some criticised Zhang's nap as unprofessional, many felt the punishment was excessive.
Comments ranged from support for Zhang's victory to playful envy over his unexpected windfall.
The case underscores the balance employers must strike between enforcing discipline and respecting employees' rights.
