L&T HR Chief Defends Chairman Amid 90-Hour Workweek Controversy

"Sonica Muraleedharan clarifies that SN Subrahmanyan's remarks were taken out of context, urging for a balanced understanding of the L&T Chairman's intentions."

January 14, 2025: Larsen & Toubro's (L&T) HR Head, Sonica Muraleedharan, has come forward to defend Chairman SN Subrahmanyan amidst widespread backlash over his controversial remarks about employees working 90-hour weeks. The statement, which sparked a nationwide debate, has been labeled as "misinterpreted" by Muraleedharan, who emphasised the need for context in understanding Subrahmanyan's comments.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone Slams L&T Chairman’s 90-Hour Work Comment: ‘They Just Made It Worse’

"It's truly disheartening to see how the words of our MD & Chairman, SN Subrahmanyan, have been taken out of context, leading to misunderstandings and unnecessary criticism. Having been present during the internal address, I can confidently state that SNS never implied or mandated 90-hour work weeks," she explained in a LinkedIn post.

Also Read: Work on Sundays Too: L&T Chairman Sparks Outrage with Work-Life Balance Remarks

Muraleedharan described Subrahmanyan's comments as "casual in nature" and vouched for his leadership style, highlighting his commitment to fostering a sense of unity among employees. "SNS treats every employee as part of an extended family, creating a nurturing and empowering environment. Working under his leadership has been transformative," she wrote.

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She urged critics to consider the intent behind Subrahmanyan's remarks instead of fueling controversy. "Leaders like SNS inspire positive change and growth. It's important to recognize their efforts rather than misinterpret them," Muraleedharan added.

The controversy erupted last week when a video purportedly showed Subrahmanyan suggesting that employees should work 90 hours a week and even on Sundays to stay competitive. "How long can you stare at your wife?" he was reportedly heard saying during the address. He further commented, "I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays. If I can, I would, because I work on Sundays too."

These remarks were met with sharp criticism on social media and responses from prominent figures, including actor Deepika Padukone, who called the comments "shocking." Industry leaders like Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla, RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka, and Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra also weighed in, mocking the idea of a 90-hour workweek.

The backlash echoes a similar controversy last year involving Infosys founder Narayana Murthy, who advocated for a 70-hour workweek.

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Larsen & Toubro, SN Subrahmanyan, 90-hour workweek, workplace culture, corporate leadership, work-life balance, Sonica Muraleedharan, corporate controversy, Deepika Padukone, Adar Poonawalla, work culture debate.