L&T Chairman Sparks Controversy with 90-Hour Workweek Remark

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman S.N. Subrahmanyan has drawn widespread criticism for advocating a 90-hour workweek and questioning the value of time spent at home. In an undated video circulating on social media, Subrahmanyan lamented his inability to make employees work on Sundays and suggested that spending more hours at the office could bolster productivity and national growth.

During his remarks, Subrahmanyan referenced a conversation with a Chinese individual who attributed China’s economic success to long working hours, positing that such practices might help India achieve similar results. “What do you do at home for so many hours? Come to the office and work,” he reportedly said.

The comments have ignited a heated debate about work-life balance and employee well-being in India. Critics, including celebrities and mental health advocates, have expressed concern over the implications of such a work culture. Actress Deepika Padukone highlighted the adverse effects of overwork on mental health, urging leaders to consider employee welfare.

Adding to the discourse, a 2021 United Nations study warned that extended working hours could lead to severe health risks, including heart disease and stroke. The study underscored the importance of reasonable work schedules for both productivity and well-being.

Facing backlash, an L&T spokesperson clarified that Subrahmanyan’s comments were intended to underscore the extraordinary effort required for exceptional outcomes. The spokesperson added that the chairman’s vision reflects a desire for India to realize its full potential.

However, many argue that such statements set a troubling precedent, particularly in a country grappling with a rising mental health crisis. The controversy has reignited conversations about workplace culture, with calls for organizations to prioritize sustainable work practices over extreme productivity measures.

As the debate rages on, Subrahmanyan’s remarks serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between ambition and well-being in the modern workplace.