Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has strongly criticized Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman S.N. Subrahmanyan over his controversial call for employees to work 90 hours a week, likening it to advocating “new-age slavery.”
Subrahmanyan’s Controversial Statement
In a video that has gone viral, Subrahmanyan is heard lamenting his inability to make employees work on Sundays, stating, “If I can make you work on Sundays, I’d be happier because I work on Sundays.” He added, “What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can the wives stare at their husbands? Come on, get to the office and start working.”
The comments sparked widespread outrage across social media, with many accusing the chairman of promoting a toxic work culture.
Clarification from L&T
In response to the backlash, L&T issued a statement clarifying Subrahmanyan’s remarks, saying they were made in the context of achieving “extraordinary outcomes for the nation.” The company emphasized that the chairman’s comments reflect a larger ambition to make India a developed nation, requiring collective effort and dedication.
Reactions Across the Spectrum
Chaturvedi took to X (formerly Twitter) to condemn the statement, describing it as “misogynistic” and indicative of a desire to drive employees as “new-age slave drivers.”
The criticism extended beyond political circles. Actor Deepika Padukone responded with a sharp retort, saying, “And they just made it worse.”
The incident also reignited debates about excessive work hours, following a similar call from Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy a few months ago. Murthy had advocated for a 70-hour workweek, stating that India’s work productivity was among the lowest globally.
A Broader Debate on Work Culture
This episode highlights a growing discourse on workplace expectations in India, with many questioning the balance between ambition and employee well-being. As corporate leaders push for longer hours in the name of national progress, critics argue that such demands overlook the importance of mental health and a sustainable work-life balance.
