Employee Left Without Notice: Can We Legally Withhold Their Salary? What Are the Risks?

If an employee leaves the company without informing us or without a No Objection Certificate (NOC), can we hold his salary? What kind of legal case can the employee file against our company?

Please advise on the appropriate course of action in such a situation.

Hi, Generally, any employee is expected to give proper notice, serve the notice period, and obtain necessary No Due clearance from all concerned before leaving the organization. However, in the event an employee absconds and the management, despite making all reasonable efforts, cannot locate the individual, then the management can withhold the full and final settlement of that employee. If the employee raises any claim regarding this matter, you can advise them to return for a proper relieving process after handing over any company property in their possession. In my opinion, there is nothing wrong with this approach.