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Rajiv Memani expressed regret for missing Anna Sebastian Perayil’s funeral and vowed to prioritize employee well-being.
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Anna’s parents blamed EY India’s work culture for her death, citing excessive workload and unrealistic expectations.
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The Union Labour Ministry has launched an investigation into allegations of an “unsafe and exploitative work environment” at EY India.
EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani has apologized for missing the funeral of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a young employee who died allegedly due to work stress. Memani expressed his regrets on LinkedIn, stating that missing the funeral was “alien to our culture” and assured that the company would prioritize employee well-being.
Anna’s parents had written a scathing letter to Memani, blaming EY India’s work culture for their daughter’s death. They described how Anna worked long hours, including weekends, and was subjected to unrealistic expectations, leading to anxiety, sleeplessness, and stress. The letter criticized EY India’s values, stating that they did not reconcile with the company’s reality.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism, with the Labour Ministry launching an investigation into allegations of an “unsafe and exploitative work environment” at EY India. Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje stated that the ministry would thoroughly investigate the matter. EY India had earlier issued a statement expressing condolences and committing to supporting Anna’s family.
Memani’s apology and assurance to prioritize employee well-being come amid growing concerns about workplace culture and work-life balance in India’s corporate sector. The incident serves as a wake-up call for companies to re-evaluate their priorities and ensure a healthy work environment for their employees.
