L&T’s HR Head Sonica Muraleedharan has come forward to neutralise the controversy and clarify after the company’s chairman Subramanyan remarks wanting employees to work for 90 hours a week, which created a storm and debate on work-life balance across the country.
It is also seen as a damage control exercise after business leaders like Anand Mahindra, Harsh Goenka, and Rajiv Bajaj also expressed disagreement with the remarks of L&T chairman of 90-hour work week for its employees.
It is the same L&T during 1974 where the Father of HRD in India Dr. Udai Pareek conceptualised HRD function and became instrumental in setting up the first dedicated department of HRD in India and perhaps the entire world. Dr. Udai Pareek and Dr. T. V. Rao, two former IIMA professors are credited with the design of the new HR Function and the First Dedicated HRD department carved out of the personnel function. They designed the first HRD department in the world They designed this out of their own thought and reflection as a part of the consultancy they provided to L&T in 1974.
In a LinkedIn post, L&T’s HR head has said that their chairman’s remarks have been taken out of context as they were casual in nature but have been misinterpreted. Sonica Muraleedharan wrote, “It’s truly disheartening to see how the words of our MD & Chairman, S.N. Subrahmanyan (SNS) have been taken out of context, leading to misunderstandings and unnecessary criticism.”
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“Having been present during the internal address, I can confidently state that SNS never implied or mandated 90-hour work weeks. His remarks were casual in nature and have been misinterpreted, fuelling a controversy that doesn’t reflect his true intentions,” she added.
Sonica Muraleedharan further said in the post, “With nearly five years in this organization and numerous addresses from SNS under my belt, I can personally vouch for his leadership style. He treats every employee as part of an extended family, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that’s rare in today’s corporate world.”
“SNS consistently demonstrates an exceptional ability to balance his demanding professional commitments while creating a nurturing and empowering environment for his team. He always encourages us to embrace innovation, continuously develop our skills, and grow both personally and professionally. Despite his packed schedule, he takes the time to connect with employees and ensure their voices are heard,” Sonica Muraleedharan said.
“SNS is, without question, a leader who genuinely cares for his team’s well-being. His visionary leadership and deep commitment to supporting his employees sets him apart as a mentor who leads by example. Working under his leadership has been more than just a job – it has been a transformative experience, akin to participating in a living masterclass on leadership, where every interaction imparts valuable life lessons,” she said.
At last, Sonica Muraleedharan said, “It’s crucial to take a step back and fully understand the context and intent behind his words before rushing to judgement. Leaders like SNS inspire positive change and growth, and it’s vital to recognize their efforts rather than misinterpret them. Instead of focusing on controversy, let’s celebrate and support leaders who empower, motivate, and elevate their teams, leaving a lasting, positive impact on the organization as a whole.”
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