Stuck Without a Relieving Letter: How Can I Legally Address My Manager's Grudge?

Hi Friends,

I was relieved from XYZ company two months ago on May 25th, 2017. However, due to a personal grudge, my manager is refusing to issue me a relieving letter. Because of this delay, I lost an opportunity. Kindly advise me on the legal recourse and what the proceedings would be if I choose to take legal action.

Regards, Naveen Kumar

Dear Naveen, I recommend you write a letter to the MD regarding the issuance of a Relieving-cum-Experience Certificate. Please also send a copy of your letter to HR. Inform HR over the phone about the request letter you have sent to the MD.

Wait for about a week for a reply from the MD. If there is no communication from their side, then approach the Labour Officer (LO) in your area. Although LOs handle cases related to labor, your issue is relatively small, and he may be receptive to your request.

Please note that the LO is different from a Labor Lawyer. The former is a government authority, while the latter is a legal professional who works independently. Generally, employers do not refuse requests from labor authorities. However, you should be cautious about one more thing. Ensure that your manager does not interfere during the background check (BGC). Inform the LO about the BGC and obtain an agreement from the MD that they will not create any obstacles during the process.

When at the labor office, try to communicate in the local language. If you are unfamiliar with the local language, bring someone along who is a native speaker of that region.

Best of luck!

Dinesh Divekar