Can Rehired Employees Keep Their Old PF Numbers? Seeking Advice on Service Continuity

I have one query regarding the PF number allotment. In our concern, due to some disciplinary actions, some employees were terminated in 2011. After legal mediation, we agreed to rehire the same employees in 2014. At the time of termination, all employees had PF numbers. Now that they have rejoined, they have requested to be allotted the same PF number without affecting their service continuity.

PF Number Reallotment Query

Is it possible to allot the same PF number for these employees? If yes, how can this be done? If not, what are the further steps to resolve this issue?

Kindly advise on this matter. I am awaiting your valuable reply.

Note: We have not made any payments for the termination period from 2011 to 2014.

Regards,
Ashok Kumar
Executive - HR

Did you settle their EPF accounts at the time of termination? What are the terms of taking them back on service? Are you going to pay them for the break period?

Kindly review the corrected text above. I have ensured that the spelling, grammar, and punctuation are accurate. The paragraphs are properly formatted with a single line break between each question.

When any employee rejoins employment with the same employer and their PF account from their previous employment with the same employer is not settled upon rejoining, you need to allot the same old number.