A recent survey conducted by the job platform Indeed has exposed a stark reality for the Indian workforce. The findings reveal a culture of constant connectivity where a vast majority of professionals are unable to truly disconnect from their jobs, even during officially sanctioned time off.
The Blurred Lines Between Work and Personal Life
The report highlights a critical erosion of boundaries. 85% of Indian employees surveyed stated they are contacted by their managers or colleagues during periods of sick leave or on public holidays. This pervasive intrusion underscores a significant work-life balance challenge permeating the corporate environment.
This trend extends beyond emergencies. An overwhelming 88% of employees report being regularly contacted outside their designated working hours. This constant expectation of availability creates a high-pressure environment. The survey found that 79% of employees fear tangible repercussions, such as missing out on promotions or suffering reputational damage, if they fail to respond to these after-hours communications.
A Generational Clash in Workplace Expectations
The Indeed survey uncovered a sharp generational divide in how different age groups perceive this culture of constant availability. The data shows a clear contrast between Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) and Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012).
Among Baby Boomers, a significant 88% reported feeling valued and committed when contacted outside of work, viewing such communication as a sign of their importance. However, the perspective shifts dramatically with younger workers.
Only about half of Gen Z employees share this sentiment. More strikingly, 63% of Gen Z respondents indicated they would consider leaving their job if their right to disconnect is not respected. This highlights a fundamental shift in priorities, with younger professionals placing a higher premium on mental well-being and clear boundaries.
Employer Dilemma and the Legislative Push
Employers themselves appear to be in a conflicted position regarding this issue. While 79% believe that implementing a formal 'right to disconnect' policy would be beneficial, a substantial 66% simultaneously fear a potential drop in productivity if such boundaries are strictly enforced.
There is also anxiety about talent retention, with 81% of employers worrying about losing top performers if they fail to respect work-life balance. Interestingly, many employers (81%) are open to offering trade-offs, such as extra compensation, for work performed after regular hours.
This corporate debate is now echoing in the halls of Parliament. During the Winter Session of Parliament in 2025, a private member's bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha advocating for the legal implementation of the right to disconnect. The proposed legislation aims to formally reduce workplace stress and promote a healthier balance between professional and personal life for Indian employees.
The survey also placed India's work culture in a broader Asia-Pacific context. While Australia and Singapore show similarly high rates of after-hours work (90% and 93% respectively), Indian employers express greater concern about productivity loss from enforcing boundaries compared to their Australian counterparts.
