Stuck Without a Relieving Letter: How Can I Resolve This HR Dilemma?

Dear Samridhi,

I left my last job in August and sent my resignation. Shortly after, HR contacted me to inquire about the reason and accepted my resignation. After a few days, when I requested my full settlement, HR explained that the process takes 45 days. However, upon completion, a new issue arose - I was informed that I had violated a clause in the agreement which prohibits me from joining a competitor of the company. Interestingly, the company I am currently working for was actually a client of my previous employer. Although I am working with this client company, I am only temporarily deployed here, and my parent organization is a different entity. Therefore, I am not an employee of the client company, as my payroll does not belong to them. I have clarified this to them, but there has been no response.

I seek your advice on what steps I should take, as I require my relieving letter to present to my current company, or else my job may be at risk.

I would appreciate your prompt response.

Regards,
Samridhi

Dear Samridhi,
As per law its illigal to get yourself associated directly or indirectly associated with any competitor or the client organization during or after your employment.So in this regard probably they are correct.Try discussing this amicably with your past organization so that you can get what you want i.e. your relieving late. If it doesn't work then probably you can threaten them with the dire consequences but you may be the looser if it is pursued further.