Waiting Over a Year for Unpaid Dues: How Can I Speed Up the Process?

I worked for 9 years and 3 months in a listed company since December 2012. The company went into debt from January 2020 onwards, and salaries were not paid on time. In March 2022, I resigned, and now the company owes me around Rs. 13 Lakhs. I have sent 2 emails and received the following reply:

"The process of clearing past dues will commence only after the investor starts fund infusion. Hence, I request you to please bear with us for some more time."

It has been 1 year and 7 months since my resignation. Is there any way to expedite the payment of the dues?

I believe that nobody who has left the company should have received unpaid salary or gratuity. In such a scenario, it is fine if you collectively make a representation before the appropriate authorities. Sending mails to a sick unit is meaningless, but you should not waste time. Do approach the authorities under the Payment of Wages Act and Payment of Gratuity Act immediately.

Please ascertain the status of the unit. Has a liquidator been appointed? Are the proceedings for liquidation in progress before BIFR or any other forum? If so, lodge your claim with that forum. Gratuity is a priority payment, and you may benefit from it. As for other dues, it is advisable to file a collective claim involving all others, as suggested by the knowledgeable Madhu Sir.