Can HR Refuse a Resignation? Understanding Your Rights and Potential Delays

In which scenario can HR refuse to accept a resignation? What if they delay it, and the employee loses a potential opportunity at another organization? What are our rights as employees?

HR can refuse acceptance of resignation if the request is not as per the terms and conditions of the appointment. In theory, an employee can sue the company for delayed acceptance of resignation and seek damages for proven loss of opportunity. However, in practical life, no effective remedy exists due to delays in the judicial system.

Exits should be well planned, foreseeing all hurdles and delays. It is a difficult balancing act that will have to be done many times.

Dear Anamika,

Please note acceptance or refusal of resignation is to be done by the "Appointing Authority" after due diligence. I presume you have not issued an Appointment Letter. Consequently, resignation should be submitted to the Appointing Authority for consideration as per the terms and conditions of the appointment.