New Delhi: A viral video clip of an L&T manager speaking harshly with employees has pushed the company into a major controversy. In the clip, the manager appears warning the staff in a very strict tone and making comments over the long working hours. Netizens say this reflects an unhealthy and toxic work environment.
L&T is one of India’s largest engineering and construction companies and is known to have quite demanding project schedules; however, this video has sparkL&T Faces Backlash Over Harsh Work Culture Cliped debate whether companies should push their employees too hard.
90 hours a week? Why not rename Sunday to ‘Sun-duty’ and make ‘day off’ a mythical concept! Working hard and smart is what I believe in, but turning life into a perpetual office shift? That’s a recipe for burnout, not success. Work-life balance isn’t optional, it’s essential.… pic.twitter.com/P5MwlWjfrk
— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) January 9, 2025
Social media users were quick to react to the clip, and within hours, thousands of people shared their own stories of workplace pressure. Many said long hours and harsh management styles should not be considered normal.
It was forced to issue a public notice stating that it does not endorse uncivil behaviour and is committed to ensuring the well-being of its employees. L&T added that it would investigate the incident and take necessary action.
Employee unions and experts on human resources say this controversy underlines a more significant malaise. Most Indian workplaces are still stuck to outdated management practices where discipline is considered more vital than empathy. Younger workers, especially those in their 20s and 30s, seek a healthier and more balanced work culture.
Other analysts also note that many companies have unrealistic deadlines for project completion. If the management pushes too hard, then the morale and productivity of the employees become affected.
The clip has now entered mainstream discussions about work culture in India, with many calling for companies to improve their HR policies.
