Can I Break My Notice Period When My Company Holds My Marks Cards? Seeking Advice!

Hi all, I have been working as a software engineer for a small-sized software company for the past two years. I had signed an offer letter with a one-year duration. Currently, the offer letter has expired as it has been two years since I started working for the company. I was recently involved in a project but did not sign any papers for it. I have given my resignation as I have received an offer from another company. My relieving period is stated as 30 days in the offer letter, but the company management is now saying they will inform me of how many months I need to work, as they have my original marks cards. Can I break the notice period? Please advise me on what I can do to resolve this situation.

Thank you.

As you have completed the minimum one year of service with the company, you can leave according to the company's policies. I believe they want to retain you since you were involved in a project (I think they plan to release you once that project is completed). You can ask HR about the reason they are requesting you to work for additional days (the notice period is actually 30 days); based on their response, you can make a decision. Do not make any hasty decisions (such as absconding), as it could negatively impact your career. If you do so, they may not provide you with your certificates and experience letter.

Why Have You Submitted Your Original Education Certificates?

It should only be shown for verification and returned to the employee. In the eventuality of a fire breaking out or records being destroyed, will your HR arrange to get a duplicate education certificate and mark sheets from the university? It's a regressive practice in my opinion.

As regards your issue, you should speak to your HR, asking them that you want your original certificates back for re-applying for a passport (or some other reason). Once you get these, do not give them back to your company. Then negotiate with your manager on the final date. You are ready to serve notice, so they should not officially hold you back beyond it. All the best!!

Thanks, Vani and Balaji. However, the company is aware that I have submitted my resignation. It has been 6 days now, and my resignation has not been processed yet. Can I quit the job after serving the required 30 days as per the process? Is there an issue if I do so, especially if they are not allowing me to leave?