Facing False Allegations at Work: Can I Leave During an Ongoing Inquiry?

Hi, after regular misbehavior and absenteeism, my subordinate has been given a suspension letter with a charge sheet. Earlier, he complained about harassment by the organization. Now, will there be any problem for me? Due to his false allegations, our management is looking at me with doubt and threatening me to look for a new job. He emailed about the issue to all members of the organization. This has created a very bad image of me in the whole organization. I am committed and do not want to leave. The matter is under inquiry now. If I get a new job, can they legally relieve me, or do they have to hold my relieving letter in view of the ongoing inquiry?

Your situation is like the hunter being hunted. His allegations against you have turned the management doubtful about your effective role as an immediate superior. Their signal to you to find alternative employment elsewhere implies that due to your personal grudge against a particular subordinate, you have a habit of complaining about him on flimsy grounds. This behavior has been instrumental in initiating disciplinary proceedings against him. It seems that this subordinate, who is more influential than you, has successfully turned the tables against you. Your post indicates that both the management and yourself desire to part ways. It's advisable to find a better job. In the meantime, try to convince the Enquiry Officer that you didn't have any personal issues with the subordinate. Your complaint against him was solely based on the necessity to maintain proper behavior and prevent absenteeism in the organization's interest. Avoid antagonizing the individual by making further allegations against him. Since the decision for suspension and disciplinary action would not have been made solely by you, there is no need to unnecessarily blow things out of proportion.

Please let me know if you need further assistance.

Addressing Allegations of Harassment

Did you actually harass him? If you are asked about the allegations (and you will be), defend yourself politely and with focused attention. The more sensational the allegation, the more fuss it creates. Allegations are often made to defend and divert.

When I read your post, I get the impression that management itself may not be too happy with you. One disgruntled person cannot create a bad impression about you alone. You need to reassess your "commitment" to the company, as it may not be reciprocal. My reading is that the company is not well-disposed towards you due to one allegation, and they have doubts about you, especially since the allegation comes from someone the company has suspended.

Take advice from a lawyer to clear your name and consider exiting for better opportunities.

Company may not like to receive you during an inquiry. The company can always shelve the inquiry and allow you to leave, but consider why your complaint against the other employee has not been the main focus. Whenever any complaint is made, the response is often a counter-complaint. Face the inquiry, clear yourself, and quit. The hunter is now the prey. Analyze why the tables have turned. In final analysis, the company is not suitable for you anymore.