Facing an IR Crisis: How Do You Handle Employee Terminations and Ongoing Inquiries?

We have an IR problem in our factory. Two employees have been terminated summarily. An inquiry against four more is in progress. Has anybody been through this kind of situation before? I would be grateful if someone could help me with this. Management decision: we will not take back the terminated employees. Matters are worsening by the day. Thanks in anticipation.

Dear Ravikiran,

Please mention the following details:

1. Was the employee terminated after conducting a disciplinary inquiry?
2. Which cadre of employees do they belong to?
3. What are the charges against them?
4. Is there any union in your organization, and if so, are they members of the union?
5. Is there any matter pending before the Industrial Tribunal?

If you clarify these questions, I will be able to reply. You can also send me the details via personal email. My email id is: vip_rana2003@yahoo.com.

Regards,
Vipul

Dear Ravikiran,

Such situations occur in the industry. I dealt with a situation where a strike continued for 37 days, resulting in two dismissals, 54 suspensions, and around 100 chargesheets. The strike was due to inter-union rivalry coupled with intra-union competition. At this point, be firm and stick to your basic game plan. Don't tolerate violence. The longer it prolongs, the weaker the worker's side typically becomes. The strike situation will end after some time, but be prepared for the backlash. Keep your eyes and ears open. Make more friends, take more people into confidence. Keep communication ongoing, either at a formal or informal level. Gather insights on the other party's actions. Involve the Labor Department if needed.

These are some of the things I can easily relate to. God bless you.

Regards,
KK Nair