Facing Harassment Over Consultancy Fees: How Can I Resolve This Without Paying?

Dear Sir, I have registered with a consultancy. During registration, they charged me 200 rupees and had me sign an agreement on their letterhead. The agreement states that if I secure a job through them, I would have to pay two months' salary.

I had only one interview arranged by them, which took place on July 17, 2016. However, at that time, the company had no job openings and I was sent back. This was the last interview facilitated by the consultancy. Subsequently, I began my own job search and found employment after two months. While working at my new job, I received a direct job offer from the company I had interviewed with earlier. Since it aligned with my career aspirations, I accepted the offer, and I am now employed there.

The consultancy representatives have been disrespectful and harassing me, citing the agreement I signed. As I do not have sufficient funds to pay, I seek assistance in resolving this matter. I would appreciate it if you could provide a solution to address these issues.

Regards, Arun K Sasi

Hi Arun, You don't need to pay a single penny to the consultancy. If needed, you can approach a corporate advocate and send a legal notice to them.

Hi Arun K Sasi,

Since I am a fresher, will it affect my future if I move legally? They came to my office and warned me that if I don't pay, I can't work in Bangalore. They threatened to send my profile to all companies labeling me as a cheater. Furthermore, they mentioned they would block me at the company gate and not allow me to work in my office. I am alone in Bangalore; what should I do? Kindly provide me with a solution.

Regards,
Arun K Sasi

Hi Arun,

Do not worry. You need to consult the advocate ASAP, and if he recommends, you need to file a harassment complaint at the police station. Is your present company well aware of this situation? If not, write an email to the Head of HR and your immediate manager/HOD regarding the situation. Remember, compose an email in such a way that you are seeking advice/help from them and not just providing information.

Sir,

My company head is aware of these problems. He ensured that my job is safe. But my problem is, if I take legal action, will it affect my career? The consultancy has good contacts in Bangalore. I have also tried to negotiate for a compromise by offering to pay an amount that I can afford. However, they are insisting on two months' salary plus tax.

Regards,
Arun K Sasi

Hi Arun, you don't need to pay. Make a police complaint against them. Really, it will help you.

Hi Arun,

They cannot ruin your career. Worst case, they might try to harm you physically, and that can be prevented when you seek an advocate's help, along with a police complaint. No wonder why they are behind you; as you went for a compromise, they would have thought that you will pay if pressurized :) No worries, in Bangalore if this news goes to the media, then whatever reputation they hold will disappear in no time.

Hi all,

Thank you for your kind advice.

@Mahesh sir: I'm concerned about the document I signed. It was a printed one containing their official logo. Is it valid?

Regards,
Arun K Sasi

Please don't worry. They can't harm you in any way. It becomes the duty of your employer to protect you. Since the consultancy is bringing the employer's name into this issue (since you joined with the particular employer, and the consultancy is seeking money), you can get assistance from your employer. Tell your HR that they are doing the same to many people by spoiling the company name and reputation. They will take care of it.

Moreover, you didn't sign any legal papers. Even in some cases, a legal contract without authentication of officials like government registration will not be valid. You have signed just on a letterhead. There are numerous letterhead companies in our country without any office. Don't believe that one letterhead print cost is just Rs. 4. That is the reason many companies don't believe the letterheads (appointment/experience letters) and they do verification.

If they even trouble you in public places (at the office gate, on the road, or anywhere), you can complain to the police station. It is not bad at all. Believe me, they will assist you. (They will definitely solve this issue without the FIR process). It will definitely solve the problem without any legal cases. As you are a fresher, I can understand that you can't afford an advocate. If you can, go ahead. (I personally think it won't be required for your case).

All the best for your career.

Cheers...