NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of EY Employee’s Death Due to Work Stress
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated suo motu proceedings concerning the tragic death of 26-year-old Anna Sebastian Perayil, who worked at Ernst and Young (EY) in Pune. Reports indicate that her death may have resulted from excessive workload and associated stress.
The NHRC stated that if the media reports are accurate, they highlight significant issues faced by young professionals who endure mental stress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation while pursuing unrealistic targets. These challenges pose serious threats to their physical and mental well-being, potentially violating their human rights.
The Commission underscored that it is the responsibility of employers to provide a safe and supportive work environment, ensuring that all employees are treated with dignity and fairness. In light of this, the NHRC has issued a notice to the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment, requesting a comprehensive report within four weeks on measures taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Labour Ministry has also launched an investigation following Anna’s mother’s allegations that the company’s overbearing work culture contributed to her daughter’s death. In a poignant letter addressed to EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani, Anna’s mother described her daughter’s “backbreaking workload” and the overwhelming stress that ultimately led to her passing on July 21, just four months into her job at the firm.
Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, confirmed via social media that the Ministry is pursuing the complaint to ensure justice is served.
In her letter, Anna’s mother expressed concern over EY’s work culture, stating it “glorifies overwork while neglecting the human being behind the role.” She noted that Anna often returned home “utterly exhausted” only to be inundated with work messages.
Despite the tragic circumstances, Anna’s family has decided against pursuing legal action against EY. Her father, Sibi Joseph, affirmed their decision, emphasizing that their intent is to prevent similar occurrences rather than seeking personal retribution.
