An employee in China was fired for spending too long in the restroom — the longest break lasting four hours — during a period between April and May 2024. The man sued the company, claiming it was an illegal termination, the South China Morning Post reported.

The incident came to light after the company was dragged to court, with Li seeking compensation of 320,000 yuan ( ₹ 41,08,800).

The company later presented surveillance footage in court showing Li making frequent and prolonged trips to the bathroom. According to company rules, leaving one’s post without permission for a specified period counted as absence. Accumulating three days of absence within 180 days could result in immediate dismissal. The firm also obtained consent from the labour union before terminating his services.

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