Stuck in a Job Bond Without Pay: How Can I Leave and Get My Documents Back?

Hello everyone,

I signed a bond with a company in January 2021, not on stamp paper. In the agreement, they mentioned that I must not leave the organization for two years, and they would provide me with training for three months. During the initial three months, no salary would be given to me. Starting from the fourth month, a stipend of 5k would be provided for the following three months, and from the seventh month onwards, a salary of 15k would be given. However, if I break the bond, I would have to pay the organization 1.20k as they had invested in training me. To date, I have not received any salary or stipend from the organization.

They explained that due to the COVID crisis, salaries have been pending or delayed, and no employee has been paid for the past four months. Additionally, they have retained my original documents such as mark sheets and degree certificates. Without a salary, I am facing significant struggles as it is the sole source of income for my family. How should I go about leaving my job? Will I be required to repay them if I resign? Please advise me on how I can retrieve my documents and salary.

Thank you in advance

Dear Member, your case, as mentioned, may be equated with bonded labor, which is prohibited. Please write an email to your employer/HR about the entire incident and give them a chance to respond to you. If they still don't pay your stipend and also don't return your documents, you can file an FIR at the local police station and also lodge a complaint with the local labor office.

You should make a complaint to the local administration, including the police, and also send a copy to the labor department. Your employer is also liable to pay for the period.

Can you please share a copy of the agreement you signed with the employer?

Thank you.