New Delhi: In a surprising turn of events, India Today, one of India’s leading news organizations, has been hit with significant layoffs. Over 250 employees, primarily from the online division, have reportedly been impacted. According to multiple sources, the layoffs have largely affected key digital segments, including India Today Global, World Tak, Chunav Tak, Crime Tak, and Sports Tak.
The restructuring seems to have impacted both junior and senior staff alike. Several senior journalists, who had been expecting salary increments, have allegedly had their increment letters withheld. These journalists have reportedly been encouraged to explore other opportunities outside the organization.
Digital Units Bear the Brunt
- The hardest hit appears to be the digital arms of the company. India Today Global, the group’s international-facing news platform, and World Tak, which focuses on global news content, were among the most affected. Additionally, Chunav Tak, a platform dedicated to election news, Crime Tak, which covers crime stories, and Sports Tak, a popular destination for sports coverage, have all seen significant staff reductions.
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Employees from these units have been left in limbo, with no clear communication from the management. One affected employee, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “We had been hearing whispers of layoffs for a few weeks, but the scale of it is shocking. Many of us had been with the company for years.”
Fresh Hiring Amid Layoffs
- Adding to the complexity of the situation, fresh hirings are still taking place within the India Today Group. An internal communication revealed that 14 new employees have been recruited across various departments. This has raised concerns among some existing staff, who are questioning the rationale behind hiring new employees while experienced team members are being let go.
Photos have been blurred to ensure the privacy of the new joinees at the India Today Group.
“It’s confusing,” said a source close to the matter. “On one hand, they are laying off long-standing employees, and on the other, they are onboarding new recruits. It sends mixed signals.”
Silence from the Top Brass
- Media Noise reached out to Mr. Rahul Kanwal, News Director at India Today, and Mr. Vivek Malhotra, Chief Marketing Officer, for a comment on the situation. Despite contacting them on two occasions, no official response has been received at the time of this publication. The story will be updated if and when a response is provided.
As India Today grapples with these changes, the larger media landscape is also experiencing turbulence. Many media houses are facing challenges, from declining revenues to the growing influence of digital platforms, leading to significant reshuffling across the industry.
Uncertain Future for Laid-Off Employees
- For the employees affected by the layoffs, the future remains uncertain. With limited job opportunities in the current media climate, many are left pondering their next steps. Senior journalists, in particular, are feeling the pinch, as the withholding of increment letters adds financial strain.
