Facing Legal Threats for Skipping Notice Period: Are They Serious or Just Bluffing?

Hi, I had to leave my previous employer without serving the required notice period of 2 months due to some personal reasons. Now they have sent me a letter saying I need to pay around 1 lakh as Short Notice Recovery. Also, if I do not pay, they will take legal action. I joined that company on 15th April 2014 and left on 2nd May 2014. I didn't take a salary from that company. I have signed the appointment letter, but I did not sign any bond.

Seeking Advice on Legal Threats from Employer

What should I do? Does anyone know if these companies really take legal action, or are they just using threat tactics?

Thanks.

Hi Pon, I agree with you, but there are some personal reasons which force me to leave this job. I have emailed and called them before leaving the job and explained my situation as well.

Legal Concerns After Leaving a Job

Now the question is what legal action they can take, and what should I have to do?

Dear Mr. M J,

It is understood that you are no longer interested in continuing with the job. The reasons may be whatever they are. You must have received your appointment order before joining. The terms and conditions of service must have been explained to you before acceptance. I assume you are currently in a probationary period, and as a probationer, you must serve at least the minimum period of notice. It is important to adhere to HR rules; you cannot simply leave as you please without following proper procedures. You may now submit your resignation, ensuring compliance with the terms of your offer, and request management to release you for better prospects.

Regards,
Adoni Suguresh
Sr. Executive (Personnel, Administration & Industrial Relations) Retired
Labour Laws Consultant

As Adoni Suguresh has rightly said, "submit your resignation now," the employer cannot claim 1 lakh ad hoc as a short notice period. Your total days of service are not more than a month, so their demand is unwarranted.