Stuck in a Service Bond: Can My Employer Deny My Release After a 1-Month Notice?

I have been serving my current employer for the past 4 years. Three years ago, I got admission to a part-time Master's in Engineering course at a reputed engineering college (IIT). My employer then forced me to sign a Service Bond for 6 years. I had no option but to sign it. My employer, in return, gave me a few leaves needed for my exams, hardly 2 days a semester. Now that my course is over, I have received an offer from a better company, and I am planning to leave, but only after a 1-month notice period, strictly obeying the rules.

As per my bond, I have 3 more years to serve. In this scenario, can my current employer withhold my release letter? If he does so, what should I do?

It is indeed debatable whether a bond for 6 years is legal. But having signed something that has bound you legally, you have placed yourself in a difficult position. Legal remedies are available but can be time-consuming.

Does your new company require a release letter from your previous employer?