Can a Company Demand Bond Money Years Later When Requesting a Relieving Letter? Seeking Advice on My Situation

Offer Letter and Service Bond Issue

Sir, I received an offer letter from a private company in 2016 for a business profile. There were no bond conditions or statements in the offer letter. However, during the induction program, I signed a form (Service Bond for 1 year) without reading it as there were other joining formalities. I was informed later that I had signed a bond for one year. Initially hired for a Customer Executive role, my duties and role were changed to a Service Cum Customer Executive, meaning I had to work for both roles simultaneously. After serving for 8 months (with a one-month notice period), I found it challenging to handle the new responsibilities along with personal issues. I tendered my resignation, submitted all company belongings, and completed the necessary forms. No HR member approached me about my reasons for leaving.

Two months later, the company contacted me regarding the bond money. I explained my circumstances, stating that if an HR member had discussed my situation before my departure, I would have completed my period before leaving. I also mentioned my inability to pay the amount and offered to rejoin to fulfill my obligations, but received no response. Subsequently, I joined a different sector and a different profile. Now, I require my relieving letter, and they are requesting the same. I have documented all communications via email. Is this acceptable? Kindly advise on how to address this situation.

Can a Company Demand Bond Money After 2.5 Years?

Can a company demand bond money after over 2.5 years, especially when they did not provide any specific training apart from an induction-style training on their products by a company employee?

In India, the legality of demanding bond money after such a long period without specific clauses in the initial offer letter can be contested. Here's how you can address this situation:

1. Review the Offer Letter and Bond Form: Carefully examine the offer letter and the bond form you signed during the induction program to understand the terms and conditions related to the service bond.

2. Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a legal professional or a labor law expert to understand your rights and obligations regarding the service bond and the demand for bond money after 2.5 years.

3. Respond in Writing: Clearly communicate your position in writing to the company, referencing the lack of specific bond conditions in the offer letter and the unexpected demand for bond money after a significant time has passed.

4. Request for Relieving Letter: Politely request the relieving letter from the company, emphasizing that you have fulfilled all necessary formalities upon resignation and that the demand for bond money after such a long duration seems unjustified.

5. Negotiate an Amicable Solution: If possible, try to negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution with the company, such as providing a written undertaking in lieu of the bond money or reaching a compromise that benefits both parties.

6. Document Everything: Maintain a record of all communications with the company, including emails, letters, and any other relevant documentation, to support your case in case of any legal proceedings.

Remember, it's essential to approach this situation calmly and professionally while safeguarding your rights and interests.