Congress MP Karti Chidambaram has criticised Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy’s call for a 70-hour workweek. He argues that the focus should be on efficiency rather than “meaningless” long hours. Instead, He has advocated for a four-day workweek, from noon on Monday to 2 PM on Friday.
Murthy, a staunch proponent of the 70-hour workweek, argues that such a schedule is crucial for India’s growth and global competitiveness. However, Chidambaram, the son of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, disagreed, asserting that working longer hours is not the solution. He emphasised the importance of work-life balance for social order and harmony, stating that daily life is already a struggle due to inefficient infrastructure and poor amenities.
“Working longer is meaningless. The focus should be on efficiency. We should move to a four-day workweek, from noon on Monday to 2 pm on Friday,” Chidambaram tweeted on Sunday.
Murthy’s stance on long working hours has been unwavering. At the CNBC Global Leadership Summit last month, he dismissed the concept of work-life balance, saying, “I do not believe in work-life balance.” He also expressed regret over India’s shift from a six-day to a five-day workweek in 1986, stating, “I have not changed my view, and I will take this with me to my grave.”
The Infosys co-founder has repeatedly argued that India needs a stronger work ethic and previously suggested that Indians should work 70 hours a week to aid the nation’s progress. Drawing from his own career, Murthy explained how he had consistently adhered to the principles he advocates, spending up to 14 hours a day, six and a half days a week, on work. He would start his day at 6:30 am and finish around 8:40 pm, a commitment he takes great pride in.
Murthy’s views on work ethic have often been compared to the practices of countries like Germany and Japan, which he credits for rebuilding their economies after World War II through hard work and dedication.
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