In the wake of the tragic death of a young chartered accountant at Ernst and Young (EY), Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the incorporation of “stress management lessons” in educational institutions. Speaking at a college event in Chennai, she referenced the recent passing of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 27-year-old CA from Kerala, who reportedly succumbed to cardiac arrest due to overwhelming work pressure.
Sitharaman emphasized the need for educational institutions to equip students not only with academic knowledge but also with tools to handle life’s stresses. “Even if educational institutions impart good education and ensure jobs, they should teach things that are usually taught in the family,” she said, highlighting the importance of inner strength and spirituality in managing pressure.
She further stated, “Believe in God; we need to have God’s grace. Seek God, and learn good discipline. Your Atma shakti will grow only from this.” This perspective drew immediate backlash from the opposition, particularly the Congress party, which accused her of victim blaming and insensitivity.
Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal criticized Sitharaman’s comments, asserting that they ignored the harsh realities faced by young professionals in the current job market. “This kind of victim blaming is despicable… How heartless can this government be?” he questioned, emphasizing the need for corporate reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Anna’s mother had earlier shared her daughter’s struggles with anxiety and the toxic work environment at EY. In an open letter, she detailed Anna’s late-night work hours and the prioritization of corporate demands over employee well-being. Following the public outcry, the Indian government announced an investigation into the working conditions at EY, with Labor and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya stating that action would be taken based on the findings.
The tragic incident has sparked a broader conversation about mental health and the work culture in high-pressure environments, particularly within corporate settings. The death of Anna Sebastian serves as a somber reminder of the need for systemic change to protect employees and promote their well-being.
Sources By Agencies
