Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old Chartered Accountant from Kerala employed at EY Pune, has tragically passed away after just four months on the job. Her family attributes her untimely death to work-related stress, citing severe anxiety and sleeplessness as contributing factors. Perayil’s mother, Anita Augustine, has publicly criticized EY for fostering an environment of overwork, alleging that the company’s actual practices starkly contrast with its publicly stated values.
Perayil, who joined EY in March 2024, was known for her dedication and ambition. Despite her initial optimism and drive to excel, the relentless pressure and demanding work environment reportedly took a severe toll on her physical and mental health. Her family has expressed deep concerns about the impact of excessive workplace stress on employees, calling for a reassessment of corporate practices that prioritize productivity over employee well-being.
Anita Augustine has condemned EY for promoting a culture of overwork, which she believes contributed to her daughter’s deteriorating health. She emphasizes a significant discrepancy between the company’s professed values of employee care and the harsh realities faced by employees like Perayil.
The tragic incident has raised important questions about the working conditions within major corporations and the broader implications of workplace stress. Calls for improved mental health support and better work-life balance have gained momentum, as the case highlights the urgent need for reforms to protect employees from similar distressing experiences.
As the family mourns the loss of Anna Sebastian Perayil, the incident continues to spark discussions on the responsibilities of employers to ensure a healthy and supportive work environment for their staff.