Feeling Trapped by an Onsite Bond: What Are My Options for Leaving Due to Health Issues?

I have signed a bond for an onsite assignment. I have been working onsite for the past 14 months. The bond has a condition to serve 1 year after the onsite assignment, else pay 3 Lakh Rs amount along with travel charges and visa fees incurred by me and my family. The bond was never given to me or a copy of it either.

I was initially sent onsite with a business projection of 6 months. However, the business has grown significantly, with a further projection for 2.5 years more. I have been working here under a lot of pressure and experiencing poor health. After several months of discussion, I have been asked to return. I do not wish to continue working further upon my return to India due to my current medical conditions. I have decided not to join any other company after quitting as well.

What options do I have?

I need your legal advice; kindly help.

Getting a Copy of the Bond

First, get a copy of the bond. Only by going through the bond can one give advice.

Discussing Onsite Work and Medical Conditions

How long was your onsite work initially? When was it extended? Discuss your medical condition with the company and volunteer to get checked by a doctor of their choice. The company has spent a lot of money on your travel, stay, and for your family, and they will try to maximize revenue by utilizing your expertise.

Using Medical Conditions to Exit the Company

If you have a genuine medical condition, you can use it to leave the company, but it will require proper documentation and discussion with the company.

Dear Chandru, you have written that:

"I have been working onsite for the past 14 months. The bond has a condition to serve 1 year after the onsite assignment, else pay 3 lakh Rs amount along with travel charges and visa fees incurred on me and my family."

If the condition to serve was for one year and you have completed 14 months, then where is the problem? You have fulfilled the conditions of the bond. Nevertheless, as Mr. Nathrao has said, try to acquire a copy of the bond to check whether there are a few more conditions that need to be fulfilled.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar

Both Mr. Nathrao and Mr. Divekar have given the right suggestion. It would be prudent to have a copy of your signed bond to check the other conditions laid down on it. Further, you need to check the terms and conditions appearing in the appointment letter.

As per the posting, you are no longer liable under the bond as the period has already expired. The great mistake you have made is not keeping a copy of the bond for reference and mishandling by others. This small mistake could still lead to consequences even if complied.

I hope this helps clarify the situation.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Dear friend,

It is very important to study the contents of the bond. Without knowing the terms and conditions of the bond, it is difficult to extend correct advice. Ask for the copy of the bond officially from the company as they are under obligation to give you the copy. If the copy is not given, then it is an irregularity. The bonds in general have been held illegal by the Apex court; therefore, it is required that you get a copy of the bond.

Warm Regards,

Bharat Gera
HR Consultant
9322404765