Job Offer Canceled Last Minute: How Can I Recover My Owed Salary from a Closed Company?

Hi Everyone, my name is Sandeep. I received a job offer from a company named Fabelizer, a kids' animation video production company in Pune, on 17-Dec-2019. After negotiating my salary over email, I accepted the offer, and the joining date was set for 15-Jan-2019. Subsequently, I resigned from my current employer. However, on 12th-Jan-2019, I received a call from Fabelizer's CEO, Ms. Naqisa Silva, informing me that due to financial circumstances, they were closing their operations in Pune.

Payment Agreement and Issues

Ms. Silva agreed to pay me a minimum of one month's salary in four installments on the following dates: 21st January 2019, 4th February 2019, 14th February 2019, and 21st February 2019. All communications regarding this matter took place over the phone, email, and WhatsApp chat.

Despite the agreed-upon dates passing, I attempted to contact the accounts department, HR, and the CEO herself, but Ms. Silva consistently cited financial difficulties and postponed the payments. Eventually, she provided a final deadline of 31st March 2019. However, when the deadline arrived, she blocked me on WhatsApp and ceased responding to my emails.

Attempts to Resolve the Issue

I tried reaching out to HR and Accounts, but received no response. Upon contacting the co-working space in Pune where the company was situated, I discovered that they had closed their operations in February 2019. All the details of these conversations are documented in emails and WhatsApp messages.

I am seeking guidance on how to recover the owed money from Ms. Silva. Any immediate assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your help.

Sandeep, I understand the challenging situation you are facing due to the cancellation of the job offer by Fabelizer. Here are the steps you can take to recover the owed money from Ms. Naqisa Silva:

Contact Labor Authorities
- As per Indian labor laws, you have the right to receive the agreed-upon salary. Contact the labor department in Mumbai to file a formal complaint against Fabelizer for non-payment of wages.

Legal Action
- Consider seeking legal advice to explore the option of taking legal action against Ms. Silva and Fabelizer for breach of contract. Provide all documented evidence of the job offer, acceptance, and communication regarding salary payments.

Debt Recovery Tribunal
- If the company is unresponsive, you can file a case with the Debt Recovery Tribunal to recover the unpaid salary. The tribunal specializes in handling cases related to debt recovery.

Collect Evidence
- Ensure you have all communication records, including emails, WhatsApp messages, and any other documentation related to the job offer, salary agreement, and payment delays. These will be crucial in supporting your case.

Seek Support
- Reach out to local labor unions or organizations that can provide guidance and support in dealing with non-payment issues. They may offer additional resources or legal assistance.

Stay Persistent
- Continue to follow up with the labor authorities, legal advisors, and any other relevant parties to ensure your case is being addressed. Persistence is key in situations like this.

I hope these steps help you in recovering the owed money from Fabelizer. Stay determined and proactive in pursuing your rights.