Phone Stolen by a Coworker: What Are My Rights and Is My Company Liable?

Hello friends,

I am working as an accountant in a private company. My phone was stolen from the office by an employee. I have proof of who stole the phone through CCTV footage. Now, the thief is out of reach, having fled.

I want to know what my rights are. Who is responsible for this situation? Will the company reimburse me for my phone since the employee was hired by the company?

Thank you.

If you have evidence in the form of CCTV footage of the theft of your mobile, then on the strength of this evidence, you may file a police complaint. Let the police investigate and nab the culprit. Workplace thefts are common. Therefore, it is the duty of the individual employee to take care of his/her belongings. In your case, what has happened is "theft" and not "robbery." Most theft cases arise out of an individual's negligence. People lower their guard and allow thieves to take advantage of it. Has something happened in your case? Did you leave your mobile phone on the work desk and go somewhere else?

Raising a claim to the company for the loss of your property because the loss happened on the company premises may not be acceptable. While company premises are not public places like a railway station or airport, they are not private like anyone's home either. Therefore, it remains to be seen how the company entertains your claim.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar

I filed a police complaint, but the police say we can't go there because he moved to Bihar, and I am in Maharashtra. The company says I am not responsible. If I file a complaint against the company with the police, is that correct?

Your mobile phone was your personal belonging. It was your responsibility to take care of it. The company cannot be held responsible for the loss. Therefore, it would be unreasonable to sue the company for the loss.

Thefts are common anywhere and everywhere. Each one of us has lost something. I understand your disappointment, but take it as a lesson and move on. However, making a complaint against the company could lead to further trouble and jeopardize your career. Whether the police will accept your complaint is a different matter.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar

Thank you, Dinesh Divekar.

I also think it is a lesson for me and others in my office: keep your things with you. I am moving on. But one thing is that the thief is contacting us and says that he wants to come back. He accepts his mistake and wants to apologize for his deed. What should I do if he returns my cell?