SN Subrahmanyan's words were taken out of context, says L&T HR head. Read full statement

L&T HR head Sonica Muraleedharan said, 'Leaders like SNS (SN Subrahmanyan) inspire positive change and growth, and it’s vital to recognize their efforts rather than misinterpret them.'

After L&T chairman SN Subrahmanyan found himself in a controversy after an undated video of him surfaced in which he was urging his employees to work even on Sundays, the company's HR head took to LinkedIn to share a long and detailed note on how his words were taken out of context.

Sonica Muraleedharan, who has worked with the multinational conglomerate for about five years, said she was present at the meeting where the comments were made.

"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," she wrote. "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 also stated that despite his packed schedule, Subrahmanyan takes the time to connect with employees and ensure their voices are heard. She also urged people to fully understand the context and intent behind his words "before rushing to judgment". "Leaders like SNS inspire positive change and growth, and it’s vital to recognize their efforts rather than misinterpret them," Sonica said.

Here's the full statement:

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. 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.

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.

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.
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.