Thu Sep 19 16:09:38 UTC 2024: ## EY Under Fire After Death of Young Employee, Probe Launched

**Pune, India** – The death of 26-year-old Anna Sebastian Perayil, an employee at EY Pune, has sparked outrage and prompted a government investigation into the company’s work culture. Perayil’s mother, Anita Augustine, has accused EY of exploiting her daughter, leading to her untimely demise in July.

In a viral email addressed to EY India CEO Rajiv Memani, Augustine detailed how her daughter’s health deteriorated after joining EY in March. She claimed that Anna was constantly pressured to work late hours, even on weekends, and was often assigned work at the last minute, even during cricket matches. Despite expressing concerns, Anna was reportedly told, “You can work at night, that’s what we all do.”

The allegations have ignited widespread criticism, with several high-profile figures calling for an investigation. Minister of State for Labour & Employment Shobha Karandlaje confirmed that a probe into the allegations of an unsafe and exploitative work environment is underway. Former union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar also expressed concern, calling Anna’s death “disturbing at many levels.”

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav remarked that Anna’s death and her mother’s emotional letter had shaken the youth of the country.

In response to the mounting pressure, EY CEO Memani sent an email to staff expressing condolences to Anna’s family and assuring employees that they will be heard if they face any challenges at the company.

This incident has brought to light concerns about the work culture at EY and the potential for burnout and exploitation in high-pressure workplaces. The government investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Anna’s death and may lead to changes in work practices at the company.

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