Staff Absence and Misconduct: How Should We Handle This Unresponsive Employee Situation?

One of my staff has been absent without authorization for one month and has taken money for office work that has not been completed. Additionally, he has taken an official mobile SIM card and has not returned it. We have now learned that he has taken employment elsewhere. A registered letter has been sent to his residence asking him to explain his absence and the other issues mentioned here, but we have not received a reply yet. What course of action do you recommend in this case?

Dear,

Simply hold his full and final dues; check it first. If he had taken your mobile SIM and if the SIM is on the company record, first file a complaint at the police station—that's your right, and it is due to this terrorist attack.

Hold his LTA if he has not taken it.

Thanks, Amit, for your suggestion. His SIM card was on the company family plan for which the company had applied and paid a deposit. Subsequently, his number was changed to a prepaid plan under his name (as Vodafone requires the user's name). The money for the top-up was reimbursed to him. However, last month, he changed it on his own to a postpaid plan using his residential address and obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from his current employer. The problem is that our clients still have access, and he could divert our business to his company. There is also a potential for fraudulent transactions in our name. He may also refuse to acknowledge our registered post letter sent to his residence. We are considering approaching him at his new office or contacting the police. Please advise.

Without waiting, with the approval from Top Management, can the police be notified if an employee remains absent for more than 8 days (possibly 10 days as per the standing order and leave policy) under the Factory Act without prior intimation? The employee's prolonged absence may be deemed as a voluntary resignation. It is recommended to proceed with filing a police complaint in such cases.

Yes, try to contact missing employees - if need be, by a couriered letter requesting a meeting personally at the new office or home. You can file an employment relationship problem against a missing employee - by abandoning, they effectively resign without notice. I think you have the right to seek a penalty or damages.

Dear Friend,

This is a very simple task. Just hold the sim card for his full and final settlement. Ask personally about his absence; do not involve your colleagues in the conversation. Once you have gathered the details from the employee, issue a warning notice. Based on his reply or lack thereof, proceed with further action as per the management's suggestion. Do not get tensed. If you require any additional information, please call +919846704221.

Regards,
Suresh 😎