Dear Chetan,
It is not "arrears" but you are due to get "allowances". Secondly, you have mentioned about the period of employment but then what about the period of allowances? What was the cause of these allowances? Has anything been mentioned in your appointment letter on payment of the allowances? When did you claim these allowances? While submitting your claim, did you route these through your Manager? What proof you have to show that you were eligible for the allowances or you have submitted these allowances to HR/Accounts Department?
Has the company given you the Employment-cum-Service Certificate? Have you taken up job in the new company? I ask these questions as while taking on your old employer, it should not impinge on your current employment. You may keep posted your current HR about the issues that you are facing with the past employer.
Payment of Arrears: - When the company underpays to some employee, in the subsequent monthly payment, when the unpaid portion of the salary is paid, is called as the arrears. But then question come, why for the four long years arrears were pending? Did you approach HR about the unpaid arrears? If yes, then do you have a proof? If really there is underpayment then you are eligible to get your dues. Just because you left the employment cannot become ground for non-payment. As far as declaration about clearance of dues is concerned, it can be obtained under duress also.
If you are convinced that fight with the old employer will not impact your current employment in any way then you may approach the Labour Officer (LO) of your area and explain your problem. Keep evidence of your past employment like appointment letter, salary slips, photocopy of the identity card etc with you. Let us see to what extent he is ready to intervene. If he is not inclined to intervene then we will see what to do next. As stated earlier tell him that you were forced to give certificate stating that no dues are outstanding against the company.
Thanks,
Dinesh Divekar