
Wed Sep 18 15:50:10 UTC 2024: ## EY Faces Scrutiny After Death of Young Chartered Accountant
**Pune, India** – Ernst & Young (EY) is facing criticism following the death of a 26-year-old Chartered Accountant, Anna Sebastian Perayil, who allegedly succumbed to extreme work pressure at the firm. Perayil had worked at EY’s Pune office for just four months before her death in July 2024.
In a statement, EY expressed deep sadness over Perayil’s passing and offered condolences to her family. The firm acknowledged that her promising career was cut short in a tragic manner. However, the statement also highlighted that the company places “the highest importance on the well-being of all employees” and will continue to seek ways to improve the work environment.
The statement comes after Perayil’s mother sent a letter to EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani, alleging that her daughter’s death was a result of excessive workload at the company. The letter claims that Perayil, who had been thrilled to join EY, worked late nights and weekends, often returning to her accommodation exhausted. The mother described the work as “backbreaking” for a newcomer.
EY has said they are taking the family’s concerns seriously and are committed to creating a more conducive work environment. This incident has sparked renewed discussion about the pressures faced by young professionals in demanding industries like accounting and consulting.