EY employee's death: Centre initiates probe, mother blames 'overwork'
What's the story
The Union Labour Ministry has initiated an investigation into the death of 26-year-old Ernst and Young (EY) India employee Anna Sebastian Perayil from Pune, Maharashtra.
The move comes after Perayil's mother alleged that her daughter died due to work-related stress.
Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State for Labour, expressed her condolences on social media and assured a thorough investigation into the allegations of an unsafe and exploitative work environment at EY India.
Grieving mother
Mother's emotional letter to EY India chairman
In a letter to EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani, Perayil's mother, Anita Augustine, detailed the circumstances leading up to her daughter's death.
She described how Perayil had been complaining of chest constriction and was not getting enough sleep due to her work schedule.
"Anna would return to her room utterly exhausted, sometimes collapsing on the bed without even changing her clothes," Augustine wrote.
Work pressure
Mother recounts daughter's dedication and exhaustion
Augustine also shared how her daughter worked late into the night, even on weekends, with no opportunity to rest.
"Her assistant manager once called her at night with a task that needed to be completed by the next morning, leaving her with barely any time to rest or recover," she added.
Despite the family suggesting Perayil quit her job due to the overwhelming pressure, she insisted on staying for learning and exposure opportunities.
Funeral absence
Family expresses disappointment over EY's absence at funeral
The family expressed their disappointment over the absence of any representatives from EY at Perayil's funeral.
"This absence at such a critical moment, for an employee who gave her all to your organization until her last breath, is deeply hurtful," Augustine wrote in her letter.
She expressed hope that her daughter's experience would lead to real change within the company and its work culture.
Company response
EY India expresses condolences, promises support
In response to the allegations, EY India issued a statement expressing their deep sadness over Perayil's death.
The company assured that they are taking the family's correspondence seriously and will provide all necessary support during this difficult time.
They also stated that employee well-being is a top priority for them and they have policies in place to ensure a healthy work-life balance.