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EY’s Pune office operated without a Shop Act license since 2007, regulating work hours and employee rights.
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The Labour Commissioner’s inspection was prompted by the death of 26-year-old CA Anna Sebastian Perayil due to alleged work stress.
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The company has been given seven days to respond to the inspection findings, with the report to be submitted to the state labour commissioner.
The Ernst & Young (EY) office in Pune has been found to be operating without a crucial labour welfare permit, known as the Shop Act license, since 2007. This license is mandatory under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act and regulates work conditions, including employee rights, working hours, wages, and safety ¹. The inspection by the Labour Commissioner was triggered by the tragic death of 26-year-old Chartered Accountant (CA) Anna Sebastian Perayil, who passed away on July 20 due to alleged work stress.
Anna’s mother, Anita Augustine, has questioned EY’s work culture, citing extended working hours that took a toll on her daughter’s physical and mental health. Augustine expressed disappointment that no one from the company attended Anna’s funeral ¹. EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani has responded, expressing condolences and emphasizing the company’s commitment to employee well-being.
The Labour Ministry has taken cognizance of the incident and has sought information from state officials. Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya assured that the government will act on the basis of the report, expected within a week ¹ ². The report will also consider findings from the police and post-mortem investigations.
The incident highlights concerns about work-related stress and employee well-being in the corporate sector. EY has been given seven days to respond to the inspection findings, and the company has pledged to provide assistance to Anna’s family ¹[2).
