Jobs Lost, Systems Locked… Why Did People Outrage Over the CEO’s Advice Following Oracle’s Layoffs?

New Delhi: Database management system provider Oracle has laid off approximately 12,000 employees in India. In the coming days, the company is expected to let go of even more employees globally—a figure projected to reach around 30,000. Amidst this situation, a statement made by Aravind Srinivas, CEO of the AI ​​startup Perplexity, has sparked a heated debate.

Speaking on the “All-In Podcast,” Aravind Srinivas suggested that those who have lost their jobs due to AI should view this as an opportunity to start their own businesses. Consequently, individuals who have endured the sting of layoffs have criticized Srinivas’s statement.

Across various social media platforms, numerous users are voicing their disapproval of Srinivas’s remarks, pointing out that starting a business is not as simple as it sounds.

Users argue that while it is easy to simply say, “Just start a business,” not everyone possesses the necessary resources, capital, or support to do so. They emphasize that this is a significant issue that should not be taken lightly.

Oracle has initiated large-scale layoffs in India, impacting approximately 12,000 employees so far. This number is expected to rise in the coming days; according to reports, the company is set to let go of a total of around 30,000 employees globally.

Many Received Early-Morning Notifications
Many employees received emails as early as 6:00 AM, sent on behalf of Oracle’s leadership, informing them that their roles were being eliminated. Additionally, the system access for many of these employees was immediately locked.

What is Oracle?
Oracle is a U.S.-based corporation with employees and offices located across the globe. The company primarily specializes in providing database management systems, cloud computing services, and enterprise software.

Why is Oracle Conducting Layoffs?
Oracle is undertaking these layoffs as part of a restructuring of its business operations, aimed at reducing overall costs. Additionally, the company aims to increase its focus on AI and automation, a shift that has led to workforce reductions. Consequently, traditional roles have been impacted.