Dear Nadal, Shekhar, Bhaskar, Joshi, Kanan etc,
I'm afraid I do not entirely subscribe to this method of becoming a 'Part of The Problem' by succumbing to the system.
I understand the nescessity of paying a small / large amount to avoid amount of money to avoid further harrassment but that is like feeding a fire. The problem will not go away! Please do not succumb to temptation. You have to stand up to your rights by putting a little starch in your backbone!!
Firstly, you have to be correct in your conduct of operations. Do everything correctly, as far as possible. There is enough profit even after all compliances. And believe me you, once you look after all your workers the word spreads and your business will grow.
Don't be offensive to the inspector but politely refuse to submit to his illegal demands. Tell him to endorse his remarks for further compliance, if necessary. Correct your procedures and have them recorded. Have the documents inspected by your principal employer as proof. When the inspector visits again, show him the proof of compliance. Arrange to have his visit recorded, either in camera (many devices are now available) or in the presence of a senior representative of the principal employer and a trusted member of your staff. Ask questions and generate discussion. Of course you have to know the minimum standards you are required to maintain. Apprise the inspector of the remarks made by him on his previous visit and the action taken by you on them. If he brings up more points note the same for compliance - AND ensure compliance, by a given date. Invite the inspector again.
Be ready to explain again!! Repeat the entire procedure.
Also be prepared to expect a delayed or 'NO SHOW' by the inspector. If not this time, the next time certainly. Why? Because he realises that you are a fighter and will not give up. That he probably has easier pickings elsewhere! See, a predator only goes to places where prey is available - EASILY!
By succumbing to the bribe syndrome you are not only harming your own business by accepting perpetuation, you are encouraging the concept of bribery. You are becoming a part of the overall problem. You are contributing to getting the country a bad name. Can you, after this, ever complain about the system??
Please remember, "THE WEAK WILL ALWAYS BE OPPRESSED. THE BIG FISH WILL ALWAYS EAT THE SMALL FISH"
Set your house in order. Do the right thing. Accept no nonsense - you don't need to! Your profits will be small initially but they will grow, surely. It takes time, patience and moral courage. If you are actually right you should have no problem standing up for your rights! So, do so. You'll sleep easy and ultimately find success.
I am doing it. And doing it successfully. I'm not Tata or Birla but I'm comfortable and happy!!
Here's wishing you luck and the entire country a better future.
Warm regards and a Happy New Year.
Colonel Jagdeep Gahlot