The recent announcement of an internship opportunity at Zepto for computer science students has raised eyebrows due to its unusual requirements. The internship reportedly offers a monthly stipend of Rs 20,000 for a three-month period but includes the stipulation that candidates must be able to lift 20 kg and remain on their feet for 10 to 12 hours. The campus hiring notice has attracted significant attention online, particularly for allegedly restricting eligibility to male applicants.

The circulated notice was purportedly shared by a user on the social media platform X, stating it was part of Zepto’s recruitment for computer science engineering students. This notice also mentions eligibility criteria for students from diverse educational backgrounds, including BTech, BCA, BBA, and BCom (Honours) from the 2026 batch. However, the role itself is designated as “Intern – Motherhub Operations,” which deviates from standard CSE internship roles.

The notice indicates a range of required skills including problem-solving, analytical ability, and familiarity with various software applications, alongside the physical requirements. This combination has led to concerns regarding the actual nature of the internship and the appropriateness of the specified conditions.

Authenticity of the Notice Questioned

A key issue surrounding the announcement is the authenticity of the notice itself. The image that has circulated online has not been verified by independent sources as an official communication from Zepto. While it outlines details such as stipend, duties, and eligibility, the lack of confirmation from the company about its legitimacy raises questions about its actual applicability.

As of now, Zepto has reportedly not issued any statement clarifying or substantiating the claims made in the circulating notice. Until a reliable source validates the information, it is prudent to view this announcement as alleged rather than an established hiring protocol.

The insistence on a physical requirement cannot automatically be deemed unreasonable if it aligns with job responsibilities. However, the differentiation in eligibility based on gender prompts considerable debate regarding fairness in recruitment practices.

Physical Requirements and Gender Issues

The requirement for candidates to lift 20 kg has elicited mixed responses. Such a physical criterion may be valid if it corresponds directly with job duties in environments like warehouse operations. Nonetheless, the suggestion that only male candidates can satisfy this requirement raises ethical concerns regarding gender discrimination.

Importantly, possessing the physical capability to lift objects is not inherently linked to gender. An equitable approach would stipulate the physical demands of the position and allow all candidates, irrespective of gender, to demonstrate their suitability. This principle extends to endurance and other physical prerequisites as well.

The nature of the internship as “Intern – Motherhub Operations” indicates responsibilities that might realistically involve physical tasks, potentially justifying the requirement. However, transparency regarding these expectations in the job description is essential to prevent misunderstandings and inadequately informed applications.

Compensation and Broader Implications

The alleged notice mentions a monthly stipend of Rs 20,000 along with a Cost to Company (CTC) of Rs 4 to 6 lakh. Clarity on the conditions attached to the CTC is necessary, as it may not directly correlate with the internship and could pertain to future employment opportunities.

The controversy surrounding the male-only eligibility and the physical constraints underscores a larger issue in hiring practices. Job advertisements should clearly outline the necessary qualifications and expectations, encompassing both physical and cognitive requirements.

As the situation develops, it raises critical questions about how organisations develop and communicate job descriptions, especially concerning roles that may involve significant physical demands. It remains to be seen how Zepto will address these concerns, and whether this incident will prompt a reassessment of recruitment strategies in similar sectors.

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