Finance Minister Sitharaman clarifies remarks on EY employee's death: 'No victim shaming' | News from India

The finance minister said she had specifically mentioned that the stress was unbearable for her after passing such a demanding and rigorous exam as the CA. “No names were noted, neither of the woman nor of the company,” she added.

Sitharaman clarified: “The Union Labour Ministry has already assured a thorough investigation into the allegations that an exploitative working environment exists in connection with the tragic death.”

Sitharaman had said – apparently in reference to the death of 26-year-old chartered accountant Anna Sebastian Perayil, who allegedly died due to work pressure at EY – that families should teach their children to deal with pressure through divinity.

She had said, “What should families teach? Whatever you study and whatever profession you pursue, you should have the inner strength to handle that pressure and that can only be achieved through divinity.”

She added, “Believe in God. We need God's grace. Seek God and learn discipline. Only then will your Atma Shakti grow. Inner strength comes only with growing Atma Shakti,” the finance minister said.

Sitharaman's comments drew criticism from several opposition leaders, who demanded that she retract her statement.

Her comments were in response to a statement made by Priyanka Chaturvedi, a member of the Rajya Sabha. Chaturvedi, in a post on X, told Sitharaman that Anna has the inner strength to handle the stress that comes with the rigorous course of being a chartered accountant.

“It was the toxic work culture and long working hours that took her life. This needs to be addressed. Stop shaming victims and at least try to be a little sensitive. I am sure God will show you the way if you seek Him,” Chaturvedi's post said.

According to a letter from the late professional's mother to EY India Chairman Rajiv Memani, as a new employee, Perayil was overworked with a “backbreaking” workload that affected her “physically, emotionally and mentally”.

First published: 23 September 2024 | 18:15 IS