Anna Sebastian Death: Report On EY Staffer's Demise Expected In 10 Days, Says Mansukh Mandaviya
Anna Sebastian Death: Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday said that an investigation is underway into the alleged unsafe and exploitative work environment at EY
Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Monday that an investigation is underway into the alleged unsafe and exploitative work environment at Ernst & Young (EY) that may have contributed to the death of 26-year-old employee Anna Sebastian Perayil. The final report on the matter is expected within 10 days.
Perayil, a chartered accountant employed by S R Batliboi, a member firm of EY Global, died earlier this year, allegedly due to severe work pressure. The Ministry of Labour & Employment initiated an investigation into the firm's work conditions following her demise.
Speaking at a press conference, Mandaviya said, "We have sought information from state officials, and further details will be shared once the report is available." He assured that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings, highlighting, "We will not overlook any faults on the part of the establishment. The report should be ready in a week or ten days."
Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje also expressed her condolences, sharing on social media, "Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Anna Sebastian Perayil. A thorough investigation is underway into the allegations of an unsafe and exploitative work environment. We are committed to ensuring justice."
EY responded last week with a statement expressing sorrow over Perayil's death, which occurred in July 2024. The company stated it had been in contact with Perayil’s family and was committed to supporting them. However, it was only recently that her family raised concerns about the excessive workload that allegedly contributed to her passing.
In response to these concerns, EY has pledged to improve its workplace environment. "We place the highest importance on employee well-being and will continue to provide a healthy workplace for our 100,000 people across EY member firms in India," the firm said in its statement.
Perayil, who passed her CA exams in 2023, had been working in EY's Pune office for four months before her tragic death. Earlier this month, her mother wrote to EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani, criticizing the company for "glorifying" overwork. While acknowledging the family's loss, EY noted that it would continue offering support and was taking the family’s complaints seriously.
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