Struggling with Unpaid Final Settlement: What Steps Should I Take Next?

satz27
After a long period of thinking, I decided to post and ask for help on this topic. This is my first experience in my career where I have come across facing this issue. I worked in a product startup for 6 months; unfortunately, I had to quit due to their strategy to focus on service projects and stall the product. I am someone who wants to work on a product and enhance the experience rather than working on various projects.

Even though my notice period was 2 months, upon my request, I was relieved after 22 days from the date of submitting my resignation email, which was instantly approved. I served until the 28th of June, which means I should be paid for 28 working days. I received my experience and relieving letters very promptly.

After sending a polite email from my side, the reply I received was unsatisfactory, and they only paid me a quarter of what was due. Additionally, there are former employees of this organization who have yet to receive their final settlements, and I am concerned that I could be one of them. Furthermore, the provident fund is not yet active as per the records.

One rule I have generally come across online is the 45-day rule, which means I should be paid within this duration.

I would like to request advice from experts here. Since everything has been handled legally on my side, could you recommend the next steps I should take? Please point out if I came across as rude or had negative thoughts while leaving the company.
riteshmaity
You are entitled to pay of 28 days as well as full and final settlement. Other ex-employees are equally entitled to outstanding and statutory dues and other settlements. You can send notices demanding the same through registered post. You can also opt for a legal notice.

Regarding PF, did the company deduct PF and not deposit it with the EPFO? If that is the case, then just lodge a simple complaint stating the facts with all details regarding the deduction of PF before the EPFO.
satz27
The PF was deducted, not just mine; the whole company's employees are facing the same issue. It looks like they have already received a notice from the EPF department.
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