Facing Unethical Practices and Unjust Termination: How Can I Challenge My Transfer and Job Loss?

Dear Sir, I am straightforward and don't believe in buttering anyone. I am honest and faithful to my work and employer. I joined a pharmaceutical company in 2014 as an Area Manager based in my hometown (non-capital) of a state. Despite a strong interview with the Marketing Manager and my strong work culture, I faced disqualification due to the Marketing Manager's dislike towards me. I endured three years and eight months of pain, torture, and humiliation hoping for a better outcome.

Unethical Practices in My Profession

In my profession, unethical practices are rampant, contrary to standard operating procedures and guidelines. Despite being appointed in City A, which was not my ideal HQ, I later discovered it was a strategic move to keep me away from unethical activities. As I gained the trust of the Marketing Manager, I was offered a transfer to another division to ensure smooth functioning.

Declining the Transfer and Subsequent Challenges

However, due to personal reasons, I declined the transfer. Subsequently, a series of events unfolded, including pressure to change my HQ location, incidents involving false food bills, and ultimately being demoted to a Medical Representative role. Facing discomfort and lack of support in the new role, I decided to seek other opportunities due to family responsibilities and dissatisfaction with the work environment.

Returning to My Previous Company and Legal Dispute

Despite challenges, I returned to my previous company to avoid financial loss and pending medical bills. However, upon resuming duty, I faced termination and threats from the old employer, leading to a legal dispute. I have been left jobless and seek guidance on challenging the transfer and termination decisions. I believe I can substantiate my claims and seek valuable suggestions on the best course of action.

Thank you.

Assessment of the Case

After reviewing the entire situation, I am not convinced that you have a strong case in your favor. The fact that you worked elsewhere, even for a short period without Provident Fund (PF), could be a significant negative factor against you. The management might be able to present supporting evidence from friendly doctors or pharmaceutical shop employees whom you have canvassed for the second company to substantiate the charge of double employment or dishonesty.

Negotiating with the First Employer

The evidence of malpractices within the company could assist you in negotiating with your first employer regarding your terminal benefits. However, in practical terms, it has limited utility in proving any malice against you. The bribery scandal involving doctors and pharmaceutical companies is a well-known trade secret in your profession, albeit unethical. Nevertheless, your claim for benefits from the first company is due and valid according to the rules, and you should insist on receiving your payment.

Thanks a lot for providing a detailed description of the problem; otherwise, we would not have fully understood the issues behind your grievances, which appear genuine but, unfortunately, may not have a satisfactory solution.

The hostility that has developed toward you is a clear indication that the company wants you out. Legal solutions may be available on paper, but from a practical point of view, they are useless. Look for another job and move on.

Dear anonymous friend,

The incidents you've narrated certainly evoke pity. At the same time, the fact that you acted more emotionally than rationally in your employment transactions cannot escape one's attention so easily. Your story reminds me of someone's observation that efficiency leads to insubordination and, in turn, insubordination leads to incompetence. We will certainly become a misfit in a permissive society if we nurture a strong "holier than thou" attitude and exhibit it very conspicuously. When we take up paid employment as our career and means of living, notwithstanding our family circumstances or degree of our sincerity and efficiency, we cannot insist on working in a place of our choice only.

Coming to your queries

The most negative aspect of your situation is your acceptance of dual employment. The cost of litigation would be more than the monetary benefits due to you. Therefore, my suggestion is also to find a new job in an organization that is more people-oriented.