Misled by New Employer: Do I Have to Pay for Accommodation and Notice Period?

Hi,

I joined a financial company 2 weeks ago in a new city after quitting a steady job with a reputed MNC. The hiring manager at the Fin. Co. had promised relocation expenses, company-paid accommodation for 2 weeks, and a buyout of short notice immediately upon joining during the interview. However, after joining, I was informed that there is no policy for relocation, that the accommodation costs were to be split equally between me and the company, and the short notice buyout was also not provided, even though it was promised to me via email that I would be reimbursed the amount upon joining.

Feeling the environment was unsafe and that the reporting manager had misrepresented most of the employment terms, I decided to return home. Now, the hiring team is asking me to pay for the accommodation at Rs. 800 per day (50% of the actual cost), in addition to paying a month's salary to them, despite having worked for them for 2 weeks already. The appointment letter mentions a one-month notice requirement if I leave within the first 6 months.

Am I liable to pay any amount to the company? I have already left my previous job due to this deception, and I am unwilling to relocate to another city alone as they are now demanding. Please advise on what steps I should take as I am very worried.

Firstly, do not worry too much about legal matters. It is always in the common interest of the individual/public. If there is any documentation of what the hiring manager promised during the interview, you could potentially take legal action. Otherwise, what is stated in the appointment letter is legally binding.

My suggestion is to consider resigning from this job, forfeiting your two weeks' pay, and search for a new job. The company cannot prevent you from pursuing another job opportunity.

Hi Madii,

As mentioned by you, you were promised notice period payout through mail, but you were not given that. This is sufficient proof of misrepresentation by the company. I am sure that with such a bad work environment and policies, similar situations would have arisen in the company earlier as well. They cannot do anything legally. If they do so, they will be at a loss as the company's pitfalls will be exposed to the public.

I agree with Rajan. You need not ask for relieving from them. Forfeit your remuneration and move ahead. If, at all, they consult you again on the same lines, do talk to a qualified lawyer. One website that will help you is www.lawyersclubindia.com

Madhu's comments on this...

Regards,
Ash.pgdm

Thank you so much for your replies, friends. I have been informed that there is an additional amount due from my side even after deducting the 15 days' salary. Is it okay if I stop taking their calls and ignore any emails sent out? I mean, there is nothing that they will be able to do legally, right?

Yes, this is called abandonment of a job. Don't respond to any calls and simply ignore.