Fri Sep 20 14:06:14 UTC 2024: ## Silence in the Ranks: Employee Complaints Remain Low Despite Growing Workplace Stress in India

**New Delhi, India** – Despite a recent tragic death of an employee at audit firm EY India, highlighting exploitative work practices, new data reveals that Indian workers are hesitant to voice their grievances on internal company platforms. Analysis of annual reports of Nifty50 companies by The Hindu Businessline shows that employee complaints filed on internal platforms range from a mere 0.01% to 7.4% of total headcount in FY24.

This low reporting rate raises concerns about the prevalence of workplace toxicity in India Inc., as employees may be reluctant to speak up due to fear of retaliation or lack of confidence in internal mechanisms. While companies like Maruti Suzuki (7.4%), Ultratech Cement (4.8%), and State Bank of India (4.8%) have higher complaint rates, several large companies, including Reliance, Adani Enterprises, and Apollo Hospitals, reported zero complaints in both FY23 and FY24.

Experts attribute the low reporting to a lack of awareness about employee helplines, fear of losing jobs, financial insecurity, and a perceived lack of justice. The data also reveals that suicides among salaried professionals are on the rise, with private sector employees being the most vulnerable.

“There is a need for a POSH-like reporting mechanism for companies to better manage workplace stress,” said Ariz Rizvi, Senior Vice-President & Head of Health Risk Management in India, Aon.

The low reporting rate highlights the urgent need for Indian companies to create safe spaces for employees to air grievances and address workplace stress. Companies must invest in transparent and effective internal complaint mechanisms, ensure awareness of these resources, and foster a culture of trust and support.

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