Facing Unfair HR Policies and Salary Deductions: How Can I Tackle This Situation?

Hi, I joined an IT company 1.5 years ago, where there are no HR policies (realized after joining). During my joining, the employer mentioned a 2-year bond plus a 3-month notice period after the bond period, and I had to hand over my original certificates. At the same time, I inquired about HR policies, and they assured me that they would provide them after joining. However, after joining, when I reminded them about HR policies, they only explained them orally, and these policies are all biased towards the employer and not favorable to the employees.

Before joining, they promised a salary hike after 6 months. However, no appraisal has been given yet (1.5 years completed). When I strongly questioned them about the appraisal recently, they did not provide a satisfactory answer and tried to intimidate me into signing a 2-year bond (backdated from my joining date).

Peculiar HR Policies

The company has peculiar HR policies such as deducting the salary for Friday and Saturday if one does not go to the office on Friday, and deducting Sunday and Monday salary if absent on Monday. In case of sickness, applying for leave for that day results in being told not to take leave the next day.

Leave Application Rules

Recently, we discovered that to take leave, we must apply a day in advance and receive approval; otherwise, they deduct 2 days' salary (for the leave day and the following day). This rule was not officially communicated, yet they enforced it. When I questioned the sudden deduction without prior notification, they assured me of an email regarding this new rule but did not address the salary deduction issue.

Unfavorable New Rules

The company keeps introducing new rules daily which are unfavorable to us. How can one predict sickness or accidents to apply for leave a day in advance, leading to a loss of 2 days' salary?

Financial Struggles and Legal Action

My employer has made my financial situation miserable. If I decide to leave, they withhold my original certificates and the bond, without providing a relieving letter. I am struggling greatly to quit this job and am prepared to take legal action against my employer. I seek valuable suggestions on how to approach my employer. Please assist me.

Thank you

I'm really sorry to hear about the difficult situation you're facing at your workplace. Here are some steps you can take to address this situation:

🎯 **Step 1: Document All Incidents**
Keep a detailed record of all incidents, including the dates, times, and what was said or done. This could serve as evidence if you need to take legal action later.

🎯 **Step 2: Communicate Your Concerns in Writing**
Write a formal letter or email to your employer outlining your concerns about the lack of HR policies, salary deductions, and other issues. Request written HR policies, as this is your right as an employee.

🎯 **Step 3: Seek Legal Advice**
Get in touch with a labor lawyer to understand your rights and options. In India, withholding original certificates is illegal and can be grounds for legal action as per the Indian Contract Act.

🎯 **Step 4: Lodge a Complaint with the Labor Commissioner**
If your employer continues to ignore your concerns, you can lodge a complaint with the local labor commissioner. In Hyderabad, you can contact the Telangana State Labor Department.

🎯 **Step 5: Resignation**
If you decide to quit, provide your resignation letter and serve your notice period as per your employment agreement. If your employer refuses to return your original certificates or provide a relieving letter, you can take legal action.

🎯 **Step 6: Legal Action**
If all else fails, you may need to file a suit against your employer. Your lawyer can guide you on this.

Remember, the law is on your side. The Indian Contract Act and the Shops and Establishment Act protects the rights of employees. You have the right to a safe and fair workplace.

Lastly, remember that this is a tough situation, but it's temporary. You will get through this and find a better work environment where your rights are respected. Good luck! 💪👍