Quite frankly, this issue is not, are you being treated differently than other employees on FMLA, but is FMLA being followed in your case? What happens with other employees is immaterial.
It sounds to me as if the employer has been on the edge of violating FMLA not only with your previous situation, but with others as well. I suspect that they've had their hand slapped for it and are now making sure that the rules are followed.

