Zoho has come under scrutiny following reports that around 300 freshers were allegedly laid off without notice, after a viral post on the professional platform Blind brought attention to the issue.
According to multiple reports, the post claimed that a large number of trainees or entry level employees were asked to leave abruptly, raising concerns about hiring practices and job security. It also suggested that some of those affected had declined other job offers to join Zoho, adding to the criticism around the situation.
The claims quickly gained traction online, with users across social media platforms questioning whether the exits reflected a shift in the company’s long stated no layoffs stance. The discussion also highlighted broader concerns around how companies manage training programmes and communicate expectations to freshers, especially when conversions to full time roles are not guaranteed.
Link to the post
300 freshers laid off by Zoho. No notice. No explanation.
They turned down TCS, Cognizant & Capgemini for this.
One full-time employee asked “are you replacing us with trainees?” and shortly after: 300 young careers were paused.
These weren’t job hoppers. They were kids from… pic.twitter.com/gQcp0356dQ
— Dhanush N (@Dhanush_Nehru) April 14, 2026
The issue drew attention not just because of the numbers involved, but also because Zoho has consistently positioned itself as an organisation that avoids layoffs. This led to further scrutiny, with many asking whether the reported exits were being classified differently under training or internship structures.
Responding to the allegations, Mohammed Sohail, Associate Director – Talent Acquisition and Global HR Operations at Zoho Corp, said, “The post in question appears to conflate our internship programme with employment. These are distinct: internships are learning engagements that do not automatically guarantee a full-time role.”
He further added: “From the 2026 intern cohort, over 30% of candidates have already received offers or are currently under evaluation for full-time employment. This is in addition to the freshers who were hired, and will be joining as employees after completing their course.”
“Describing interns who were not offered a position as ‘laid off’ is factually incorrect, adding that interns who show “exceptional ability” are absorbed, while the rest complete their internships as scheduled and are “free to apply for other jobs.” he added
