Feeling Cornered: Can I Ignore My Former Employer's Demand for Settlement Payment?

Hi everyone, I used to work for a company and absconded after working for just about 1 month and 15 days (I was on probation) as I got a better opportunity elsewhere. I spoke to the manager and HR, informing them that I had received a better job offer and, due to my weak financial position, I had to accept it. They said they would treat me as absconded and terminate my employment (I returned all company articles to them). Now, almost a month after my last working day, they have emailed me asking for the full and final (F&F) settlement amount, which I can't afford to pay. They have also mentioned that if I fail to pay the dues within 3 days, they will be constrained to initiate appropriate action against me. However, there is a sentence in the email stating that only upon receipt of the recovery amount will they provide an experience or relieving letter. Friends, I'm scared and need to know if I can ignore it and not pay anything. I don't want an experience letter. I know it will affect my future, but I can't afford to pay the amount. I'm cornered; please help me, guys.

Managing Financial Obligations with Your Former Employer

You are not in a position to pay right now, but that does not mean you will never be able to repay the dues. The organization has been considerate so far, so you also need to respond similarly. You may seek to pay back in convenient installments which you can afford, considering your present earnings. As you mentioned, you are going to be in a better financial position, and when major payments like bonuses, incentives, or other income are received, you can substantially reduce the liability. Thus, you will never have any guilty conscience or apprehension about the future. Discharging your liability and keeping a clean slate will help your conscience more than anything. The organization is not likely to resort to legal action, considering your goodwill gesture to resolve the matter amicably.