Is It Fair to Tie Diwali Bonus to Signing New Company Rules? Seeking Advice

Dear Seniors, please advise regarding the following issue. This morning, our HR manager came and gave a set of copies relating to company rules and regulations. He also asked everyone to sign them as accepted. I learned that only those who sign will receive the Diwali bonus.

I have attached the documents for your reference. I am waiting for your reply.

Regards,
Selvam.

Have you read and understood the attached document? Haven't all employees signed this at the time of joining? Ask the HR Manager what the link is between these papers and the Diwali Bonus. Make sure you clarify the third point with HR and understand the nuances within them. Let us know then for suggestions regarding his idea behind signing an acceptance of the same.

I found the rules and regulations acceptable, and nowhere is it written that the bonus is linked with the rules. As you said, HR has given copies of the set to everyone. I would suggest you please go together with your queries, and I am sure you will get the right answer from HR.

Rules are OK; you can accept the rules as they are common rules that every company follows.

Here, only a limited number of employees have been given appointment letters. Two weeks ago, some employees started a union, and now they are demanding a bonus of at least 20%. The bonus is calculated based on experience. If an employee has more than 5 years of experience, they are eligible for a bonus of Rs. 6000.

The union members are now demanding this bonus, which is why they are implementing these actions.

Appointment Letter Importance

If you have not received an appointment letter, you might be in trouble because only those who have it will be considered employed! Others could be dismissed.

The rules have been framed now due to the expected trouble with the Union. Is it a new factory? These kinds of rules are usually part of the appointment letter itself and nothing special.

Retirement Age Concerns

But retirement at the age of 55? That seems too early, especially if you are not engaged in physical work or manual labor.

There seems to be a standard set of working conditions; however, as mentioned by Rramxx, if you have not received your appointment letter, then you may be in trouble. Additionally, I find Clause 6 to be unfair and disturbing. Can you get clarification on the deduction of salary/wages under Clause 6?

Furthermore, are you and your fellow team members eligible for a bonus as per the provisions of the Payment of Bonus Act? If yes, then it becomes your right to get a bonus. If not, then it is at the discretion of the management.

Regards,
Preetam Deshpande