Can My Company Extend My Notice Period After Joining? Seeking Clarity on Policy Changes

When I joined the company, they mentioned a one-month notice period on my offer letter. However, during my notice period, HR asked me to serve a two-month notice period, which I couldn't do due to the importance of my exams. I served only a one-month notice period. Now, for full and final settlement, they are asking for the shortfall notice period amount of one month. They mentioned that after my confirmation, they extended the notice period to two months through an internal circular.

Please help me understand if this change applies to all employees or only to new employees who joined after the internal circular was issued. Additionally, my BM stated on my resignation that only a one-month notice period was required. Kindly assist me with this matter.

Notice Period and Employment Contract Terms

Precisely speaking, the notice period is one of the terms and conditions in a Contract of Employment. Not only the notice period, but any other terms or conditions governing the employment contract cannot be altered, amended, or modified by way of an internal circular.

Employer's Rights to Amend Offer of Appointment

However, the Employer/Management reserves the right to add, amend, alter, or modify any clause mentioned in the Offer of Appointment. Still, the same needs to be provided in writing to employees. This should include a reference number of the original contract and require acknowledgment from the employees. Employees must sign and return the duplicate copy of such communications to the employer.