Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan has ignited a heated debate about work-life balance with his recent comments advocating for a 90-hour work week. His remarks, made during an employee interaction, come on the heels of similar suggestions from Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy, who proposed a 70-hour work week for young Indians.
A Call for Extended Work Hours
During the interaction, Subrahmanyan expressed his desire for employees to work longer hours, even suggesting they give up Sundays. He questioned what employees do at home, provocatively asking, “How long can you stare at your wife?” This remark has drawn significant backlash online, with many interpreting it as trivializing personal lives in favor of increased productivity.
Subrahmanyan further lamented that he could not mandate Sunday work, stating, “If I can make you work on Sundays, I will be more happy because I work on Sundays.” He justified his stance by referencing a conversation with a Chinese individual who claimed that China could surpass the U.S. due to its workforce putting in 90 hours a week compared to the 50 hours typically worked by Americans.
L&T Chairman says “ he regrets he’s not able to make us work on Sunday and Sunday’s, 90hrs a week” in a response to his employee remarks
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Reactions from Employees and Social Media
The chairman’s comments have gone viral and sparked outrage among netizens and employees alike. Many users on social media criticized Subrahmanyan’s perspective on work-life balance, calling it inappropriate and out of touch with modern workplace expectations. Comments like “What am I supposed to do? Stare at someone else’s wife?” reflect the frustration felt by many regarding his remarks.
The debate around overwork is not new in India, but Subrahmanyan’s comments have reignited discussions about corporate culture and employee well-being. Critics argue that such expectations can lead to burnout and negatively impact mental health.
Comparison with Narayana Murthy’s Remarks
Subrahmanyan’s statements have drawn comparisons to Narayana Murthy’s earlier suggestion that young Indians should embrace longer working hours to contribute to the nation’s growth. Both leaders’ comments highlight a broader trend among some Indian business leaders who advocate for extreme work commitments as a path to success.
Conclusion
As the conversation around work-life balance continues to evolve, Subrahmanyan’s comments serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle between corporate expectations and employee well-being. The backlash he faces may prompt a reevaluation of how companies approach work hours and employee satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available as of January 9, 2025. Further updates may change details regarding corporate policies and public reactions.
