Struggling to Claim Unpaid Salaries Post-Lockdown: What Can I Do When My Factory Stays Closed?

Hi! I am an imitation jewelry employee.

The government has lifted the lockdown on industries in the middle of May in Telangana state. As per the apex court, the "no work, no pay" rule has been imposed for the months of April and May. To date, it is uncertain when the industry will reopen. When contacted the HR department, they mentioned that malls have not opened yet.

In this situation, how can salaries be claimed? The employer still owes salaries for February and March.

Please suggest.

Dear Mukesh,

As you haven't received wages for February and March, and the lockdown occurred after March 22nd, this situation is in violation of the Payment of Wages Act and Compensation Act. Please contact your regional labor office for assistance. They will surely address this issue promptly.

Thanks,
Kailash Joshi

Kailash Joshi's advice to the aggrieved person who posted to seek and secure clarity is noteworthy. Please exert efforts to receive your withheld wages, which were and are an unlawful, unethical act of depriving wages earned. Covid-19 lockdown never hinted or suggested that any employer should not pay wages earned. Claim your dues.

Harsh K Sharan, Kritarth Team,
1st June 2020

Dear Mukesh.Gowd,
In addition to what is suggested by the other learned members, you can also approach the Nodal officer at the level of the Ministry to deal with “Employee Grievances with respect to COVID-19, Govt. of India". The email of the officer is [Login to view]
Regards.
Akhil Bhartiya