Mandatory Employee Vaccination: Is It Right to Enforce and What Legal Issues Could Arise?

Hi all, I work as an HR Manager in the KPO industry. Our company has decided to make it mandatory for all employees to get vaccinated. They have requested HR to issue a letter to each individual, instructing them to get vaccinated on a compulsory basis. Is it appropriate to send out a letter mandating vaccination for employees?

Could you please advise if there might be any potential legal complications associated with this decision?

Thank you.

Dear Sindhu,

It's good to note that your company wishes for each employee to be vaccinated. Nevertheless, before issuing a directive on vaccination, I recommend staying informed about the ground realities. Your post gives the impression that COVID-19 vaccines are as readily available as Vicks Vaporub or a Paracetamol tablet.

The situation on the ground is quite different. The vaccines are not readily available. Those who register on Cowin, which is part of the Aarogya Setu App, often don't get a time slot. Even for those who do, there is no guarantee of stock availability at the local Public Health Centre (PHC). There are cases where Aarogya Setu shows vaccine availability, but practically, it is not available at all.

Against this backdrop, issuing an order for compulsory vaccination could be seen as unwanted coercion. Nevertheless, your company may consider partnering with a local hospital to arrange a vaccination drive for employees and their families. Many companies are doing so. Yes, you can issue a strict order for 100% attendance for the vaccination.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar