Stuck Without a Laptop During COVID: How Can I Clear My Name and Get My Relieving Letter?

I have worked for two months in one company during the COVID-19 pandemic using my personal laptop. Unfortunately, my laptop got damaged, and due to the lockdown, all shops were closed, making it impossible for me to repair it. Without my laptop, I was unable to continue my work. When I informed my team about the situation, they told me there was no need to log in anymore, so I stopped working. However, they are now considering me as an absconder and are refusing to provide me with a relieving letter. What can I do?

I have worked for two months in a company during the COVID-19 pandemic using my personal laptop. Unfortunately, it got damaged, and I couldn't recover it due to all shops being closed because of the pandemic. Even without a laptop, I couldn't continue my work. I informed the team about the situation, and they said there was no need to log in, so I stopped working. However, now they consider me absent without official leave (AWOL) and are not providing me with a relieving letter. What can I do?

Hi, it was a common issue many faced during the lockdown period. Many employees who were not able to service their desktop/laptop were unable to continue working from home.

Communication with the office

You mentioned that you informed your office about the laptop issue. Have you visited the office once the lockdown was over? According to your statement, they now consider it an absconded case and are not providing a relieving letter.

Steps to resolve the situation

After the lockdown, you should have reported to the office. Due to a communication gap, your employer might have considered you as an absconded case. Visit your office in person and express your willingness to continue.

What are the next steps I can take?

Hi, then obviously it's a case of unauthorized absence, which is wrong. Being a short stint of 2 months with that company, just ignore it and remove that experience from your resume. Hope you didn't face any PF overlapping issues.