The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo moto cognizance of the death of a young professional in Pune, reportedly due to excessive work pressure. The 26-year-old chartered accountant from Kerala, who was employed by Ernst & Young for four months, died on July 20, 2024.
Her mother accused the company of subjecting her daughter to unbearable working conditions that severely impacted her physical and mental health. This tragic incident has reignited discussions on corporate responsibility and employee well-being.
The NHRC has issued a notice to the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment, demanding a detailed report on the case within four weeks. The commission expressed grave concern over the allegations that excessive workload, stress, and lack of proper rest contributed to the employee's untimely death.
The commission emphasised that employers must create safe, secure, and supportive environments for their employees, ensuring their dignity, fairness, and well-being are prioritised.
In its official statement, the NHRC highlighted the broader issue of unrealistic work targets and intense job pressures that young professionals often face in today’s fast-paced corporate world.
The commission noted that such conditions can result in severe mental and physical stress, which ultimately violates fundamental human rights. It stressed that businesses should not only be responsible for economic growth but also for upholding human rights standards.
The letter written by the deceased employee’s mother has played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the issue. In the letter, the mother described how the company’s demands had a detrimental effect on her daughter's health, resulting in sleepless nights and constant stress. Her heartbreaking letter, which went viral on social media, further accused the company of failing to attend the funeral of one of their own employees.
The NHRC has urged businesses across the country to review their employment policies, with a focus on improving work-life balance and ensuring the mental and physical well-being of employees.
It has called for stricter adherence to global human rights standards and emphasised that companies must act with accountability and transparency when dealing with such sensitive matters. The commission has also asked for regular updates on this investigation and expects timely responses from all involved parties.
The tragic death of the young CA highlights the pressing need for changes in the corporate culture, especially with regard to workloads and employee care. The focus on achieving targets and maintaining productivity should never come at the cost of human life and well-being.
This case is a stark reminder that organisations must be held accountable for their actions and must create an environment where employees feel supported and valued, not overburdened or neglected.
The Ministry of Labour and Employment is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. The NHRC is closely monitoring the case and will take further action based on the findings. The commission is not only seeking answers but also looking for preventive measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
This case has ignited a broader conversation across various sectors regarding the intense pressures faced by young professionals. Many individuals have shared their own experiences of being overworked and undervalued, fueling discussions about corporate reform.
As the investigation progresses, it remains to be seen what steps will be taken by the government, corporations, and other stakeholders to address these deep-rooted issues.
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