Is It Fair for My Wife's Company to Pay in Cash and Demand Extra Hours? Seeking Advice!

Hello,

My wife is working in a small electronics company. She joined as a quality testing engineer, but she didn't receive an appointment letter. Additionally, all employees there are paid in cash. Due to the small number of employees, everyone is forced to stay after their work hours and come in on their days off. Is this a good practice? What could be a solution for this situation? Can anybody suggest something?

Thanks,
Sachin

Dear Sachin,

This is a common problem in small organizations. Employers often exploit their workers by giving bribes to labor inspectors and others, as well as maintaining false records. You cannot do anything alone against this. You can take action in the labor court, but not by yourself. You should join forces with other employees of the organization or try to discuss the issue with the employer and all the workers involved.

Thanks

Hi,

Salary can be paid by cheque or cash. It is provided for in the Payment of Wages Act. Forcing employees to work beyond the working hours and failure to pay overtime for the extra hours of work performed are violations of provisions of Labour Acts, and they can be brought to the notice of the enforcing agency for grievance redressal.

S. Krishnamoorthy

The problem is such that nothing can be done, except to stay there until your wife gets another option. Nothing can be done against the employer as your wife has not been given an appointment letter.

Just have patience. If your wife needs work experience, ask her to stick there for a while. Then she can proceed to another job.

Ambika Kamath

Hi,

Even if you wish to complain to authorities, they may pay a bribe or may not show all are employed there. In the absence of any proof of working such as a salary slip, appointment letter, Form 16, EPF Statement, etc., it would be foolish to fight against them.

If you do not like it there, you can move out. But most small companies operate like this. The fact that employees are still working there shows that the employer may be paying them handsomely. That is the reason nobody is protesting or opting out.

So the choice is yours. To stay or not to stay there.

Shiv

How come you can work in an organization without an appointment letter? How will you answer this question when your wife attends any interview?

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In most organizations, having an appointment letter is a standard procedure before starting work. It serves as a formal confirmation of employment terms and conditions. Without an appointment letter, there may be uncertainties regarding the job role, responsibilities, salary, and other crucial details. It's essential for both the employer and the employee to have this document in place to avoid misunderstandings or disputes in the future.

When attending an interview, especially as the spouse of an individual working without an appointment letter, it's important to address any questions regarding this matter tactfully. One approach could be to explain the situation honestly, highlighting any informal agreements or temporary arrangements that may be in place. Communicating openly and transparently can help build trust and credibility during the interview process.

Overall, while the absence of an appointment letter may raise eyebrows in a professional setting, clarity and professionalism in addressing the issue can help navigate such situations effectively.