The Indian IT industry, often hailed as the backbone of the country’s economic growth, has witnessed exponential expansion over the years. However, beneath the surface of innovation and global competitiveness lies a grim reality—rising suicide rates among IT professionals. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), India recorded a total of 1,64,033 suicides in 2021, with 2,593 cases attributed to “career problems,” marking a 41% increase from the previous year. Additionally, between 2019 and 2021, 43,420 salaried professionals in the private sector died by suicide, highlighting the growing crisis in workplace mental health. Increasing work pressure, unrealistic deadlines, and a toxic work culture are pushing many tech employees to the brink, raising concerns about mental health in the industry.
The Tragic Cases of Dwaipayan Bhattacharjee and Anna Sebastian Perayil
1. The Suicide of Dwaipayan Bhattacharjee in Kolkata
On March 19, 2025, Dwaipayan Bhattacharjee, a 50-year-old senior manager at a multinational IT company in Kolkata, tragically ended his life by jumping from the sixth floor of his office building in New Town. Bhattacharya, an alumnus of Presidency College, was leading a team of engineers and was described by colleagues as sociable and skilled. However, some noted a recent change in his demeanor, with him becoming less communicative. Despite immediate rescue efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital. The police are investigating the case from all possible angles, and colleagues and friends have expressed shock and disbelief over the incident.
2. The Tragic Death of Anna Sebastian Perayil
Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old chartered accountant from Kochi, joined Ernst & Young (EY) in Pune in March 2024. Despite her academic excellence and dedication, Anna faced an overwhelming workload that severely affected her well-being. She frequently experienced anxiety attacks and often called her mother in tears, expressing her struggles with the relentless demands of her job. Despite raising concerns with the Human Resources department, she received no assistance. Tragically, Anna passed away in July 2024 due to a cardiac arrest, which her family attributes to work-related stress. Her mother, Anita Augustine, penned an open letter to EY India’s Chairman, Rajiv Memani, highlighting the detrimental impact of the excessive workload on her daughter’s health and well-being. This incident prompted the Indian Ministry of Labour to launch an investigation into the allegations of an unsafe and exploitative work environment at EY.
Factors Contributing to Workplace Stress
1. Excessive Workload
A major contributor to stress is the heavy workload faced by IT professionals. The demands of the industry often require employees to work long hours, including weekends and holidays. In many cases, workers are expected to meet tight deadlines while managing multiple projects at once. This constant pressure to perform can lead to burnout, fatigue, and feelings of inadequacy, especially when there is a lack of proper breaks or downtime.
2. Toxic Work Culture
- Micromanagement: When employees are constantly supervised and their decisions second-guessed, it can lead to frustration and a sense of helplessness, which ultimately increases stress.
- Poor leadership: The lack of supportive leadership often leaves employees feeling unsupported, leading to heightened pressure and dissatisfaction.
- Discrimination and harassment: Issues such as workplace bullying, gender bias, and unfair treatment make employees feel undervalued and stressed.
3. Unrealistic Deadlines and Pressure to Perform
The pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines is common in the IT sector. With projects often being pushed to the last minute, professionals are expected to work under tight time constraints, compromising the quality of work and causing high levels of stress.
4. Job Insecurity
- Frequent layoffs: The IT sector is highly competitive, and many companies implement cost-cutting measures, including downsizing. This results in a volatile job market, which contributes to stress.
- Fear of obsolescence: Technological advancements and the rise of artificial intelligence leave many workers feeling that their skills may become outdated, exacerbating anxiety about career prospects.
How to Overcome Workplace Stress
1. Improve Work-Life Balance
A healthy work-life balance is essential for reducing stress. Organizations and employees can work together to ensure that workers have sufficient time for personal activities, family, and relaxation.
- Flexible working hours: Allowing employees to choose their work hours or work remotely can help them manage personal commitments alongside their professional responsibilities. This reduces the pressure of long commutes and the need to work during non-productive hours.
- Encourage breaks: Employers should encourage employees to take regular breaks, including lunch hours and short pauses throughout the day. These breaks can reduce mental fatigue and increase productivity.
2. Provide Mental Health Support
- Access to counseling services: Organizations should offer employee assistance programs (EAPs), which provide access to trained counselors and mental health support. Employees should feel comfortable seeking help without the fear of stigma or negative consequences.
- Stress management programs: Introducing workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can equip employees with tools to handle stress more effectively.
- Regular mental health check-ins: Managers and HR can initiate regular one-on-one meetings to check on employees’ mental health, ensuring they are not overwhelmed by work pressures.
3. Foster a Positive Work Culture
- Recognition and appreciation: Regular recognition of employees’ hard work and achievements can boost morale and reduce feelings of stress and underappreciation. Simple actions like public praise or reward programs can motivate employees.
- Clear communication: Encouraging transparent communication helps reduce misunderstandings and confusion about job expectations. Employees should feel that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.
- Collaboration and teamwork: Building a culture where collaboration is valued over competition reduces isolation and helps employees feel supported in their roles.
Author’s View
The rising levels of workplace stress in India’s IT sector present a serious concern that requires urgent attention. With long hours, tight deadlines, and constant pressure, many professionals in this field are grappling with physical and mental health challenges. Alarming statistics, such as increasing burnout rates and tragic incidents like suicides, underscore the gravity of the situation.
However, there is hope. By adopting a proactive approach that includes promoting a healthy work-life balance, providing access to mental health support, and creating a positive work environment, companies can make significant strides in reducing stress. At the same time, employees can contribute by practicing better time management, seeking help when needed, and prioritizing self-care.
