We will note down all the cases of workplace harassment in this section from now!
Discrimination in MNCs Against Indian Employees: A Deep Dive
A young Girl(she was a CA) who was working with E&Y died due to the harassment and the toxic work-culture in it Pune location. No one from her company even attended her funeral. This was the letter written by her Mom. This is a question to all the Indian and Foreign MNCs whose only motive is run after profit without even thinking about the impact on the employee. This toxicity is not there for the same companies in the Western Countries where they practice ideal workplace and what not. Also, this is a question to the companies who are in the business of selling GREAT PLACE TO WORK.
LETTER FROM THE MOTHER TO E&Y India head – Click Here
In addition to the mental health struggles and deaths linked to toxic work cultures and academic harassment, another critical issue that demands attention is the discriminatory treatment of employees by multinational corporations (MNCs) when operating in countries like India. While wage differences can be rationalized due to varying economic conditions, the cultural disparities and exploitation faced by Indian employees are more difficult to justify. Employees in India are often forced to endure long working hours, compromised work-life balance, and inadequate leave policies, creating a toxic work culture that is starkly different from the favorable working conditions enjoyed by their counterparts in Western countries.
Another Incident – This time an employee Tarun Saxena from Bajaj Finance committed Suicide. No Sleep for 45 days. Toxic Work Culture
Wage Disparity: An Acceptable Reality?
The wage disparity between Indian employees and those in the U.S., Europe, or other Western nations working for the same MNCs is often justified based on the differences in macroeconomic settings. The cost of living in India is lower, and salaries reflect this economic reality. However, even though this explanation might hold in terms of salary structures, the cultural discrimination Indian employees face in terms of work conditions is far more significant.
In countries like the U.S. and across much of Europe, employees in MNCs often enjoy several benefits, including:
• Defined working hours: Employees typically work around 40 hours a week, with clearly defined start and end times.
• Mandatory paid vacations and holidays: It’s common for workers in Western countries to receive at least 4 weeks of paid vacation annually, along with mandatory holidays.
• Strict adherence to work-life balance: Many MNCs in the West actively encourage their employees to log off after working hours and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Health and wellness initiatives: Many companies in Western countries prioritize employee well-being with health insurance, mental health support, gym memberships, and more.
In India, however, these same MNCs often enforce completely different standards:
1. Long and Unregulated Working Hours
In India, it’s not uncommon for employees to work up to 16-18 hours a day, particularly in sectors like IT, consulting, and financial services. Employees are often expected to be available beyond traditional office hours, working late into the night to accommodate time zones of foreign clients or head offices in Western countries.
This overwork culture, glorified by many MNCs in India, can lead to severe burnout, stress, and long-term mental health issues. Employees in India often report feeling pressured to work late or over weekends to meet unrealistic deadlines, while their counterparts in Western countries enjoy much healthier work schedules.
Example: In the IT sector, several Indian employees of MNCs have come forward to share their experiences of working excessively long hours, especially during critical projects. The expectation to “go the extra mile” is far more pronounced in India, where overwork is seen as a form of dedication. In contrast, employees in the U.S. or Europe are encouraged to leave work on time and maintain a clear boundary between work and personal life.
2. Inadequate Leave Policies and Vacation Time
MNCs operating in India often provide fewer paid vacation days compared to their Western counterparts. In countries like Germany, France, or Sweden, it’s common for employees to receive 30 days of paid vacation annually, with additional public holidays. However, Indian employees often receive fewer leave days and are discouraged from using them, especially during critical business periods.
Example: Indian employees have often shared how difficult it is to take a break, as managers or leadership discourage vacations during “peak” times. The pressure to meet deadlines often leads employees to sacrifice their time off, further exacerbating the stress levels in the workforce.
3. Lack of Work-Life Balance
Western MNCs are known for promoting a strong work-life balance. Employees in Europe, for instance, are often mandated to take time off, and remote working options have increased significantly post-pandemic, allowing for a more flexible work schedule. In contrast, employees in India are often expected to work much longer hours, even at the cost of personal well-being.
Work-life balance is almost non-existent for Indian employees, and they are often expected to prioritize work over everything else, even in personal emergencies. The “always available” culture that thrives in Indian offices of MNCs is detrimental to the overall well-being of employees and directly contributes to mental health issues, burnout, and even suicides.
4. Workplace Culture and Mandatory Holidays
In most Western countries, MNCs respect public holidays and cultural traditions by allowing employees to take time off during national celebrations. However, in India, even during major festivals such as Diwali or Holi, employees are often asked to work or are burdened with looming deadlines that ruin the holiday experience.
This disregard for local culture and public holidays by MNCs sends a message to employees that their well-being and personal lives are secondary to company profits. The emphasis on continuous productivity with no breaks during national holidays further alienates employees and creates an environment of relentless pressure.
Example: During Christmas and Thanksgiving in the U.S., employees often enjoy several days off, with businesses actively promoting family time. However, Indian employees of the same MNC may be expected to work late on Diwali or other major Indian holidays, illustrating the stark contrast in how these companies treat their employees based on geography.
5. Health and Wellness Programs: A Glaring Disparity
MNCs in Western countries often offer robust health and wellness programs to their employees. These programs may include gym memberships, mental health counseling, yoga sessions, and workshops on stress management. In contrast, Indian employees often receive little to no access to similar resources, despite facing higher stress levels due to longer work hours and the lack of work-life balance.
The absence of proper health and wellness programs in India further highlights the discrimination Indian employees face. The lack of mental health support in particular, in a country where mental health awareness is still nascent, contributes to a toxic work culture and results in many employees feeling unsupported in times of need.
6. Favoritism and Career Advancement
Many employees in Indian offices of MNCs report feeling overlooked for promotions and career advancements in favor of employees based in the West. Despite working longer hours and handling a higher volume of work, Indian employees often see their Western counterparts promoted more quickly or given more significant opportunities within the company. This favoritism creates a sense of inequality and frustration among Indian employees, who feel their efforts are not equally recognized or rewarded.
7. Western Leaders’ Hypocrisy: Private Jets and Environmental Conferences
Beyond work culture, many Western corporate leaders, particularly from MNCs, show a glaring hypocrisy when it comes to sustainability. These leaders frequently attend international environmental conferences, flying in private jets and enjoying lavish accommodations. Despite advocating for sustainability and eco-friendly practices, their actions send a contradictory message, highlighting the stark difference between rhetoric and reality.
This hypocrisy extends to their treatment of employees in different countries. While leaders promote progressive, employee-friendly policies in their home countries, the reality in India is often different, with employees facing burnout, stress, and unequal treatment.
Conclusion: Time for Change
The discriminatory treatment of Indian employees by MNCs operating in India is a stark reminder that, despite globalization, inequality persists. While economic differences may justify wage disparities, the significant gap in work culture, mental health support, and work-life balance is harder to justify. Indian employees are expected to endure toxic work conditions that would be unacceptable in Western countries, and this discrepancy directly impacts their mental health and overall well-being.
It is crucial for MNCs to recognize that cultural and geographic differences should not dictate the quality of work environments. Companies must adopt a global standard of employee care that transcends borders, ensuring that Indian employees receive the same benefits, respect, and work-life balance as their Western counterparts. Mental health, personal well-being, and fair treatment should be universal values, regardless of where employees are based.
Not only MNCs, the recent Rape and Murder which had happened in Kolkata also underlines how our workplaces are.
Kolkata Rape Horror at RG Kar Medical College: A Disturbing Incident
Kolkata, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and intellectual prowess, was recently shaken by a horrific incident at RG Kar Medical College, one of the oldest and most prestigious medical institutions in India. The alleged rape of a young on-duty Doctor within the college/hospital premises has sparked outrage and brought to light several issues that plague not only Kolkata but also educational institutions across the country.
The Incident
On 9th August 2024, reports emerged that a young on-duty doctor was raped and murdered within the boundaries of RG Kar Medical College. While the exact details of the incident are still under investigation, what is clear is that the victim was subjected to a brutal act of sexual violence in what should have been a safe space. The alleged crime has raised concerns about the safety of women, even in reputed institutions like medical colleges and hospitals, which are generally perceived as secure environments.
The incident not only sparked a media frenzy but also led to protests by students and activists demanding justice for the victim and better security for women on campus. The outrage was palpable, with many people questioning how such an atrocity could occur in a place meant for learning, healing, and the betterment of society.
A Failure in Security
One of the most alarming aspects of the RG Kar rape horror is the failure of security measures within the medical college campus. Educational institutions, especially those as prominent as RG Kar, are expected to ensure the safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors. However, the alleged rape underscores the fact that these institutions are not immune to such crimes.
• Lack of Surveillance: One of the most common complaints that surfaced after the incident was the lack of adequate surveillance on campus. Many students pointed out that despite the large campus and high footfall, the number of CCTV cameras was insufficient, and several areas were poorly monitored.
• Inadequate Lighting: Students and activists also raised concerns about the lack of proper lighting in certain areas of the campus, making it easier for perpetrators to commit crimes without being noticed.
• Negligence in Security Personnel: While security personnel are employed to patrol the campus, questions were raised about their vigilance and effectiveness. Allegations of negligence and complacency surfaced, with many arguing that the guards were either undertrained or simply not paying attention to their duties.
Impact on the Student Community
The incident has had a profound impact on the student community at RG Kar Medical College and beyond. Students, particularly women, are now fearful of walking alone on campus, even during the day. The sense of safety that many had taken for granted has been shattered, and the college administration is now under immense pressure to take swift action.
Protests erupted in the days following the incident, with students demanding justice for the victim and a comprehensive overhaul of the security measures on campus. Banners and placards calling for “Justice for the Victim” and “Safe Campus Now” were seen as students marched through the streets of Kolkata, determined to make their voices heard.
The mental health toll on students, especially female students, cannot be understated. Many are now seeking counseling and support services to cope with the fear and anxiety that have gripped the campus. In a profession as demanding as medicine, where students are already under immense pressure, this added layer of insecurity is detrimental to their well-being.
The Role of Authorities
The incident has also drawn attention to the role of both the college administration and the local authorities in preventing such crimes. The question on everyone’s mind is: could this have been prevented?
• Administrative Inaction: Critics argue that the college administration has been slow to react to previous complaints of security lapses. Students had reportedly raised concerns about security on several occasions before the incident, but little was done to address these issues.
• Law Enforcement Response: Following the incident, the police have launched an investigation, but their response has been met with skepticism. Many are questioning why there wasn’t a stronger police presence in and around the campus, especially given that it is a public institution with a large number of students and visitors.
• Judicial Process: As the case progresses through the legal system, there is widespread hope that justice will be swift and the perpetrators will be punished. However, given the slow pace of the Indian judicial system, there are fears that the case could drag on for years, leaving the victim and her family in a prolonged state of anguish.
Addressing the Broader Issue of Campus Safety
The RG Kar Medical College rape and murder horror is not an isolated incident. Across India, there have been numerous reports of sexual harassment and assault on college campuses. This case has brought the issue of campus safety to the forefront once again and has raised important questions about the measures that need to be taken to protect students and staff.
• Stricter Security Measures: Educational institutions must invest in better security infrastructure. This includes installing more CCTV cameras, improving lighting, and ensuring that security personnel are well-trained and vigilant.
• Sensitization and Awareness: Institutions should also focus on educating students and staff about sexual harassment and assault. Workshops on gender sensitivity, consent, and bystander intervention can go a long way in preventing such incidents.
• Support Systems for Victims: Colleges and universities must establish clear and accessible reporting mechanisms for victims of sexual violence. This should include dedicated helplines, counseling services, and legal support for victims.
• Holding Authorities Accountable: It is crucial to hold college administrations and local authorities accountable for ensuring the safety of students. Failure to do so should result in strict penalties, including the removal of negligent officials.
The Broader Societal Issue
The RG Kar rape horror is a reflection of the broader societal issue of sexual violence in India. Despite efforts to improve the legal framework and create awareness, incidents of rape and sexual assault continue to occur at alarming rates. The culture of victim-blaming and the stigma attached to reporting sexual violence further exacerbate the problem.
In many cases, victims are reluctant to come forward due to fear of retribution, social ostracization, or lack of trust in the legal system. This creates a vicious cycle where perpetrators are emboldened, knowing that they are unlikely to face consequences.
Conclusion
The rape at RG Kar Medical College is a tragic reminder of the urgent need to address the issue of sexual violence in educational institutions and society at large. It has shattered the illusion of safety that many students had and has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of security measures on campus.
As protests continue and investigations unfold, there is hope that this incident will lead to meaningful change. Educational institutions must take immediate steps to improve campus safety, while society as a whole must work towards creating an environment where women feel safe and empowered.
The road to justice for the victim is long, but it is one that must be traveled with determination, empathy, and a commitment to change.
