Hi all,
I would like to seek advice from you about India's termination legislation regarding pregnant employees who are still in their probation period and have been employed for less than 80 days.
The employee has joined the company for less than 80 days and has not been performing well since she started. She has recently been found to be pregnant. Could you please let me know the legislation in India, regarding whether the employer could:
- provide disciplinary action during this period;
- terminate one's contract when she is pregnant;
- terminate one's contract during the probationary period when one is pregnant;
- if yes, is there any severance pay required?
Appreciate your input soon.
Thank you.
ST
From Singapore, Singapore
I would like to seek advice from you about India's termination legislation regarding pregnant employees who are still in their probation period and have been employed for less than 80 days.
The employee has joined the company for less than 80 days and has not been performing well since she started. She has recently been found to be pregnant. Could you please let me know the legislation in India, regarding whether the employer could:
- provide disciplinary action during this period;
- terminate one's contract when she is pregnant;
- terminate one's contract during the probationary period when one is pregnant;
- if yes, is there any severance pay required?
Appreciate your input soon.
Thank you.
ST
From Singapore, Singapore
Hi,
If she is not performing well and she is in the probation period, then she can be terminated. The procedure you can follow is as follows: first, you can issue a show cause notice to her and give her some time (7 days) to respond in writing regarding the cause behind it. If the cause justifies the situation, then consider keeping her; otherwise, after 7 days, issue a termination letter.
From India, Ambala
If she is not performing well and she is in the probation period, then she can be terminated. The procedure you can follow is as follows: first, you can issue a show cause notice to her and give her some time (7 days) to respond in writing regarding the cause behind it. If the cause justifies the situation, then consider keeping her; otherwise, after 7 days, issue a termination letter.
From India, Ambala
Hi Anjali, Thank you for the details information. Is employer requiring to pay 12 weeks of maternity leave pay and severance payment? Thank you. Regards, ST
From Singapore, Singapore
From Singapore, Singapore
Hi ST No the employer has no obligations as she is not a confirmed employee... and then to her performance in not satisfactory. Only 7 days show cause notice is sufficient in this case.
From India, Ambala
From India, Ambala
Dear [Recipient],
If you have placed someone on probation due to unsatisfactory performance, it is essential to provide them with an opportunity to improve by issuing letters outlining their weaknesses. However, in your situation, it appears that you are not primarily concerned about the individual's performance but rather about their pregnancy. Consequently, you cannot terminate their employment based on this reason. This approach is disheartening from an HR perspective.
Thank you,
J. S. Malik
From India, Delhi
If you have placed someone on probation due to unsatisfactory performance, it is essential to provide them with an opportunity to improve by issuing letters outlining their weaknesses. However, in your situation, it appears that you are not primarily concerned about the individual's performance but rather about their pregnancy. Consequently, you cannot terminate their employment based on this reason. This approach is disheartening from an HR perspective.
Thank you,
J. S. Malik
From India, Delhi
The Maternity Benefit Act states, "No woman shall be entitled to MB unless she has actually worked in an establishment of the employer from whom she claims MB, for a period of not less than 80 days in the twelve months immediately preceding the date of her expected delivery."
In your case, you have to consider her expected delivery date. If she works for more than 80 days, whether in a probationary or temporary capacity, you are required to provide the maternity benefit.
Sankar
From India, Madras
In your case, you have to consider her expected delivery date. If she works for more than 80 days, whether in a probationary or temporary capacity, you are required to provide the maternity benefit.
Sankar
From India, Madras
My personal opinion is that it is very unfair to terminate an employee because she is pregnant while on probation.
I was pregnant while I was on probation (in one of my previous jobs). However, I handled a whole HR department alone as the HR manager resigned during my probation.
However, if someone is not performing well during the probation, then termination may be necessary.
I was pregnant while I was on probation (in one of my previous jobs). However, I handled a whole HR department alone as the HR manager resigned during my probation.
However, if someone is not performing well during the probation, then termination may be necessary.
Hi, Please advice... Is maternity benefit mandatary? Should all the company implement the M.B. in it’s policy? What if a company terminate a woman for she is pregnant? Regards, Divitha.
From India, Bangalore
From India, Bangalore
Hi,
Always, the employer would ratify an agreement with the employee when he/she joins the company. It is permissible by law that an employee under probation can be terminated if the performance is unsatisfactory.
Even during the probation period, if an employee requests maternity leave (under the Maternity Benefit Act 1961), the employer is obliged to sanction it as it is the employee's privilege. The duration is six weeks before delivery and six weeks after delivery upon the submission of medical certificates. Additionally, the employer is responsible for providing three months' salary during maternity leave.
Severance pay is not mandatory, but maternity benefits are. An employer can inquire and seek explanations from underperforming employees. In a show-cause notice, a time limit can be specified, stating that failure to respond within the stipulated time with a valid reason will result in serious disciplinary actions. If the employee fails to respond promptly, the employer has the right to take immediate action.
Ultimately, it is at your discretion to decide whether to retain such an employee on your payroll.
If you have further questions, feel free to give me a call.
From India, Madras
Always, the employer would ratify an agreement with the employee when he/she joins the company. It is permissible by law that an employee under probation can be terminated if the performance is unsatisfactory.
Even during the probation period, if an employee requests maternity leave (under the Maternity Benefit Act 1961), the employer is obliged to sanction it as it is the employee's privilege. The duration is six weeks before delivery and six weeks after delivery upon the submission of medical certificates. Additionally, the employer is responsible for providing three months' salary during maternity leave.
Severance pay is not mandatory, but maternity benefits are. An employer can inquire and seek explanations from underperforming employees. In a show-cause notice, a time limit can be specified, stating that failure to respond within the stipulated time with a valid reason will result in serious disciplinary actions. If the employee fails to respond promptly, the employer has the right to take immediate action.
Ultimately, it is at your discretion to decide whether to retain such an employee on your payroll.
If you have further questions, feel free to give me a call.
From India, Madras
Hi ST,
You can't terminate her unless there is a strong reason. One more important thing to remember is she may not accept the termination as she may be a top performer. You can only terminate her in one way, i.e., in case she doesn't come to the office for 3-4 days without any prior information, only then do you have the right to terminate her.
Do let me know in case you require any inputs from my end.
From India, Hyderabad
You can't terminate her unless there is a strong reason. One more important thing to remember is she may not accept the termination as she may be a top performer. You can only terminate her in one way, i.e., in case she doesn't come to the office for 3-4 days without any prior information, only then do you have the right to terminate her.
Do let me know in case you require any inputs from my end.
From India, Hyderabad
Hi,
Always, the employer should ratify an agreement with the employee when he/she joins the company. It is permissible by law that an employee who is under probation can be terminated if the performance is unsatisfactory.
Even during the probation period, if an employee requests maternity leave (under the Maternity Benefit Act 1961), the employer is obligated to approve it as it is the employee's privilege. The duration is six weeks before delivery and six weeks after delivery upon submission of medical certificates. Additionally, the employer is required to provide three months' salary during maternity leave. Severance pay is not mandatory, but maternity benefits are.
There is nothing preventing an employer from seeking an explanation from an underperforming employee. In a show-cause notice, you can specify a time limit, stating that failure to respond within the stipulated time with a valid reason will result in serious disciplinary action. If the employee fails to respond promptly, you have the right to take immediate action.
Ultimately, it is at your discretion to decide whether to retain such an employee on your payroll. If you have further questions, feel free to contact me.
I recommend putting her on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) for a month and closely monitoring her performance before taking any action. This is just a suggestion; otherwise, the situation may escalate.
Thank you,
Ankur Singh
From India, Delhi
Always, the employer should ratify an agreement with the employee when he/she joins the company. It is permissible by law that an employee who is under probation can be terminated if the performance is unsatisfactory.
Even during the probation period, if an employee requests maternity leave (under the Maternity Benefit Act 1961), the employer is obligated to approve it as it is the employee's privilege. The duration is six weeks before delivery and six weeks after delivery upon submission of medical certificates. Additionally, the employer is required to provide three months' salary during maternity leave. Severance pay is not mandatory, but maternity benefits are.
There is nothing preventing an employer from seeking an explanation from an underperforming employee. In a show-cause notice, you can specify a time limit, stating that failure to respond within the stipulated time with a valid reason will result in serious disciplinary action. If the employee fails to respond promptly, you have the right to take immediate action.
Ultimately, it is at your discretion to decide whether to retain such an employee on your payroll. If you have further questions, feel free to contact me.
I recommend putting her on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) for a month and closely monitoring her performance before taking any action. This is just a suggestion; otherwise, the situation may escalate.
Thank you,
Ankur Singh
From India, Delhi
Thats is what this fraternity expects from members. This means the Solution with the reference of the law. correct response from you. Regards,
From India, Pune
From India, Pune
Dear Soo Teng,
You are mixing two issues together, I guess.
One issue that may likely fall under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 is as follows:
Your contention is that you recruited a female employee and kept her on probation. During her probationary period, you found out that her performance is not up to the mark and she is not fit for your organization.
Now, you wish to terminate her services before she completes the probationary period.
Under the above circumstances, you will have to check under what capacity she is employed. Whether she enjoys any protection under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 or not.
If she falls under the definition of Workman as per Section 2 (s) of the I.D. Act, 1947, she may raise an industrial dispute at a later stage.
This will, however, not stop you from terminating her services provided you terminate her services by way of discharge simplicitor so that the termination will not amount to retrenchment. It will also not cast any stigma on the employee. While terminating the services, you will have to pay one month's notice pay to the said employee.
The next issue is the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.
If an employee draws a salary/wage below Rs. 10,000/- per month and the area from where your company is operating is covered by the ESIC, she will not be covered under the M.B. Act, 1961.
In my opinion, even if she is covered under the M.B. Act, 1961, it should not stop you from terminating her services by way of discharge simplicitor.
Regards,
Manoj
You are mixing two issues together, I guess.
One issue that may likely fall under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 is as follows:
Your contention is that you recruited a female employee and kept her on probation. During her probationary period, you found out that her performance is not up to the mark and she is not fit for your organization.
Now, you wish to terminate her services before she completes the probationary period.
Under the above circumstances, you will have to check under what capacity she is employed. Whether she enjoys any protection under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 or not.
If she falls under the definition of Workman as per Section 2 (s) of the I.D. Act, 1947, she may raise an industrial dispute at a later stage.
This will, however, not stop you from terminating her services provided you terminate her services by way of discharge simplicitor so that the termination will not amount to retrenchment. It will also not cast any stigma on the employee. While terminating the services, you will have to pay one month's notice pay to the said employee.
The next issue is the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.
If an employee draws a salary/wage below Rs. 10,000/- per month and the area from where your company is operating is covered by the ESIC, she will not be covered under the M.B. Act, 1961.
In my opinion, even if she is covered under the M.B. Act, 1961, it should not stop you from terminating her services by way of discharge simplicitor.
Regards,
Manoj
Dear All,
Performance, etc., is not the only criteria; you will have to strictly follow the Maternity Benefit Act. Also, see the Employee definition in the Act. It may even be construed as Sexual Harassment.
With Regards,
V. Sounder Rajan
E-mail: rajanassociates@eth.net
From India, Bangalore
Performance, etc., is not the only criteria; you will have to strictly follow the Maternity Benefit Act. Also, see the Employee definition in the Act. It may even be construed as Sexual Harassment.
With Regards,
V. Sounder Rajan
E-mail: rajanassociates@eth.net
From India, Bangalore
Hi,
I agree with Mr. Afsal Abdulkhani, but even in the Maternity Act of 1961, it is not stated that if an employee is performing or not performing well in the organization, then the management has all the right to take necessary action towards the employee.
However, you must be very careful while terminating any employee. I suggest reviewing the appointment letter that was issued to the employee at the time of joining the organization and following the same procedure with every individual employee of the organization.
If the appointment letter does not clearly specify the termination process, then it is essential to focus on this aspect before terminating the employee. It is better to first discuss with the particular employee about any inhibiting factors and where things might be going wrong. This is especially important as the employee is still in the probation period and pregnant.
Since she has been working with your organization for 80 days, it may be premature to judge her performance at this point. She needs time to acclimate to the company and the projects assigned to her.
Before taking any action against the employee, have a discussion with her senior and then proceed with necessary precautions. Even after discussions, if termination seems necessary, gather reports regarding her pregnancy and make a decision in accordance with company policies. If there is no policy in place, frame one immediately and proceed accordingly.
Regarding compensation, she may not be entitled to Maternity Benefits (MB) as she has not applied for maternity leave. Ensure she does not apply for maternity leave, as then the organization would be obligated to pay her salary for up to 12 weeks.
If you have any further questions or doubts, please feel free to reach out using the provided contact number or email address.
With regards,
Satya Penubothu
From India, Hyderabad
I agree with Mr. Afsal Abdulkhani, but even in the Maternity Act of 1961, it is not stated that if an employee is performing or not performing well in the organization, then the management has all the right to take necessary action towards the employee.
However, you must be very careful while terminating any employee. I suggest reviewing the appointment letter that was issued to the employee at the time of joining the organization and following the same procedure with every individual employee of the organization.
If the appointment letter does not clearly specify the termination process, then it is essential to focus on this aspect before terminating the employee. It is better to first discuss with the particular employee about any inhibiting factors and where things might be going wrong. This is especially important as the employee is still in the probation period and pregnant.
Since she has been working with your organization for 80 days, it may be premature to judge her performance at this point. She needs time to acclimate to the company and the projects assigned to her.
Before taking any action against the employee, have a discussion with her senior and then proceed with necessary precautions. Even after discussions, if termination seems necessary, gather reports regarding her pregnancy and make a decision in accordance with company policies. If there is no policy in place, frame one immediately and proceed accordingly.
Regarding compensation, she may not be entitled to Maternity Benefits (MB) as she has not applied for maternity leave. Ensure she does not apply for maternity leave, as then the organization would be obligated to pay her salary for up to 12 weeks.
If you have any further questions or doubts, please feel free to reach out using the provided contact number or email address.
With regards,
Satya Penubothu
From India, Hyderabad
I think you need to rework on the company's recruitment process. This is a really bad part of your role as an HR person - to consider terminating a pregnant woman who has just joined the organization. This is not an ethical practice. She should be helped and given a chance to improve. Trust me, if she is physically unfit to perform well, she will leave on her own, and if she is not sincere towards work, then also she should be given a chance. There is no point in terminating an employee just because she is pregnant, regardless of whether she is within probation or confirmed.
I would suggest you talk to her personally to understand her current situation and future plans, and ask her why she is not able to perform up to the mark. This can help you decide the right course of action in such a situation. Behave like an HR professional rather than a departmental clerk, and think broadly; you will be able to understand the right action to take in this scenario. HR's job is to retain people, train, and motivate them for better work rather than terminating them for trivial reasons in a hurry.
From India, Dharamsala
I would suggest you talk to her personally to understand her current situation and future plans, and ask her why she is not able to perform up to the mark. This can help you decide the right course of action in such a situation. Behave like an HR professional rather than a departmental clerk, and think broadly; you will be able to understand the right action to take in this scenario. HR's job is to retain people, train, and motivate them for better work rather than terminating them for trivial reasons in a hurry.
From India, Dharamsala
Malik, you are 100% correct. I don't know why some HR people fail to understand human values. If she is pregnant, terminating her will result in a lot of mental pressure on her, which could adversely affect the child. Please consider this before taking any action.
From India, Mumbai
From India, Mumbai
It's another thing, how does this discussion help that employee/employer... (I just hope she will be treated in an ethical manner);
But meanwhile, I have learned a lot about the Maternity Benefit Act. Thanks to all for sharing your valuable knowledge.
Special thanks to Rupesh for the notes.
From India, Ahmadabad
But meanwhile, I have learned a lot about the Maternity Benefit Act. Thanks to all for sharing your valuable knowledge.
Special thanks to Rupesh for the notes.
From India, Ahmadabad
Services of an employee who is on probation can be terminated with a 24-hour notice. Please check the terms of her employment as stated in her appointment letter. If there is a clause allowing the termination of services by either party with a 24-hour notice during probation.
Pregnancy should not influence her performance during the probation period. It is advisable to build a record before terminating her services, such as issuing warning letters, creating file memos, advisory memos, etc. before termination. The Maternity Benefit Act clause is applicable to employees on maternity leave.
If she is in a bargaining category, please ensure to adhere to the principles of natural justice. This will help in case of litigation, preventing potential issues.
From India, Mumbai
Pregnancy should not influence her performance during the probation period. It is advisable to build a record before terminating her services, such as issuing warning letters, creating file memos, advisory memos, etc. before termination. The Maternity Benefit Act clause is applicable to employees on maternity leave.
If she is in a bargaining category, please ensure to adhere to the principles of natural justice. This will help in case of litigation, preventing potential issues.
From India, Mumbai
Dear Ninad,
I agree with your point that pregnancy should not be an issue when terminating an employee. However, taking punitive action is a very drawn-out process. One has to follow the principle of natural justice, build a proper case against the employee, and go through a painful process of conducting an inquiry, and so on. In the end, the employee always claims to be victimized. These kinds of cases need to be handled very sensitively.
In my view, the method of discharge simplicitor is quite effective. There is no need to provide any explanation or accuse an employee of non-performance. Simply issue a termination letter citing the clauses of the appointment letter and provide one month's notice pay. Employers have the right to recruit as well as the right to terminate.
Regards,
Manoj
I agree with your point that pregnancy should not be an issue when terminating an employee. However, taking punitive action is a very drawn-out process. One has to follow the principle of natural justice, build a proper case against the employee, and go through a painful process of conducting an inquiry, and so on. In the end, the employee always claims to be victimized. These kinds of cases need to be handled very sensitively.
In my view, the method of discharge simplicitor is quite effective. There is no need to provide any explanation or accuse an employee of non-performance. Simply issue a termination letter citing the clauses of the appointment letter and provide one month's notice pay. Employers have the right to recruit as well as the right to terminate.
Regards,
Manoj
Before recruiting, you can ask for a medical certificate from the employee. If she is pregnant, you can decide whether to employ her or not because once she is issued an appointment letter, she is authorized for all the benefits.
Termination of an employee always requires a show-cause notice or warning letter. An employee can be terminated even if he is issued a letter of confirmation if he does not perform according to the guidelines.
Regards
From India, Ahmadabad
Termination of an employee always requires a show-cause notice or warning letter. An employee can be terminated even if he is issued a letter of confirmation if he does not perform according to the guidelines.
Regards
From India, Ahmadabad
Pregnancy does not affect the intention of a good worker. If your intention is to terminate this worker solely due to her pregnancy, that's bad. Otherwise, you can act as mentioned in the Certified Standing Orders of your factory.
Hope that's clear.
Singh
From India, Ludhiana
Hope that's clear.
Singh
From India, Ludhiana
I have read all the comments, but nobody mentioned natural justice. It is understandable that she did not complete 80 days in the organization, making her ineligible for maternity payment but eligible for maternity leave without pay. How can we overlook this issue? While she may be a poor performer, the fact remains that she is pregnant now. As per natural justice, she has the right to take leave during this period (without pay). The employer does not have the right to take actions that go against natural justice.
Regards,
Vijayender Chandel
From India, Shahkot
Regards,
Vijayender Chandel
From India, Shahkot
Bad HR practice. Terminating someone because she is pregnant is discriminatory and I’m sure it would be illegal as well.
From India, Delhi
From India, Delhi
I read all the comments. I am satisfied with Mr. Malik's comments. Whether the employee is on probation period, then it does not mean that she is not a human being. We have to follow the natural justice procedure with every employee. Although the maternity act does not apply to her due to her period of presence, she can get leaves without pay for such a period on presenting medical certificates. So, give her some time, understand her situation, which every woman suffers.
Regards,
Vijayender Chandel
From India, Shahkot
Regards,
Vijayender Chandel
From India, Shahkot
Dear Friend,
You have 2 issues at the same time: 1. About her performance 2. Pregnant. Both the issues are in different verticals, so as an HR person, we cannot proceed with anything that you have stated here.
Provide disciplinary action during this period:
- terminate one's contract when she is pregnant;
- terminate one's contract during the probationary period and one is pregnant;
- if yes, is there any severance pay required?
What exactly we can do is just show our humanity here, no other go.
1. Call her and find the problem with her performance (because when we select a candidate, we surely know how they will perform). If the problem is indeed with the work, then you can very well talk to her directly about resignation, not termination.
2. You can tell her in a positive sense that we are okay if you resign within a week also, just take care of your health because health is more important than wealth. This gives the employee great strength rather than going into a bad mood or a disturbed situation, which disrupts our business activity.
3. Get everything from her in clear written format (Resignation Letter) and relieve her accordingly.
4. Avoid unnecessary issues while terminating unless it is mandatory by all means.
At every point, we also consider labor laws, human rights, and so on.
This would be my choice always.
Regards,
MD
From India, Chennai
You have 2 issues at the same time: 1. About her performance 2. Pregnant. Both the issues are in different verticals, so as an HR person, we cannot proceed with anything that you have stated here.
Provide disciplinary action during this period:
- terminate one's contract when she is pregnant;
- terminate one's contract during the probationary period and one is pregnant;
- if yes, is there any severance pay required?
What exactly we can do is just show our humanity here, no other go.
1. Call her and find the problem with her performance (because when we select a candidate, we surely know how they will perform). If the problem is indeed with the work, then you can very well talk to her directly about resignation, not termination.
2. You can tell her in a positive sense that we are okay if you resign within a week also, just take care of your health because health is more important than wealth. This gives the employee great strength rather than going into a bad mood or a disturbed situation, which disrupts our business activity.
3. Get everything from her in clear written format (Resignation Letter) and relieve her accordingly.
4. Avoid unnecessary issues while terminating unless it is mandatory by all means.
At every point, we also consider labor laws, human rights, and so on.
This would be my choice always.
Regards,
MD
From India, Chennai
We have written this to one of Finance Manager Please see below :
To: Ms Ibe. Annulika and Mr George Mushota.
CC: Human Resource, General Manager and CEO
Most recently complained that you were rude, belittling, and insulting each other at your front desks and in plain view. This was observed by other staff.
Within our own Finance Department, George Mushota complained that he was on the receiving end rude and unprofessional behaviour over the immediately stated him in office since last week of December. Since then, he has asked not to work with you or even be in your presence. Similarly, Ibe. Annulika has also asked that she not be assigned to work with you because of habitual rude and offensive behaviour.
Of great concern is your apparent failure to recognize or even admit that you people often overreact and lash out at each other’s. Employees are expected to work together as a team and expend whatever effort is necessary to provide quality service to the Premier Petroleum Limited as an organization. This is not to say that you cannot disagree with staff or other professionals. Rather, in addressing differences of opinions you cannot be combative, insulting, belittling, or rude. This only creates friction, diminishes morale and teamwork, and poorly reflects upon the Premier Petroleum Limited. You must show empathy, deal courteously with individuals, appreciate their differences, and handle emotions. When appropriate, you must show compassion for each other’s and recognize the contribution of each other as a team.
Equally important is that you need to listen to what others are saying.
In short, you both must agree to abide by the following principles by which you will conduct yourself in the workplace:
• You both will employ collective decision-making with your work’s and outside professionals and contacts to assure positive teamwork and maximize the goals of the Premier Petroleum Limited;
• You both will have respect for each other’s abilities, contributions, and values to the Premier Petroleum Limited;
• Ine Annulika will recognize that you can learn from your co-workers & Mr George Mushota.
• You both will deal with co-workers and others in a professional and courteous manner at all times.
• You will deal with conflict in a forthright and constructive manner and with tolerance for the differences of others.
1. In addition, I recognize that you may have certain ideas to improve your performance. Therefore, I encourage you to provide your own Personal Improvement Plan Input and Suggestions:
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________ ________________________
Employee Signature Date
By
Mr George finance manager replied
To Human Resource office : Att of Madam Nafisa. Iam very surprised in the first place to observe that iam receiving mail with contets of this nature from your office because administratively the office ranking does not allow you to do so. Iam officially holding an office which is higher than your office and you can not under normal circumstances raise any disciplinery issues against me. Coming to the issues that you have raised, may i help you to understand that there is no pressure in accounts at all. the only issue that seem to be a problem is lack of appreciation by my surbordinate to understand the accounting World. She does not really understand what accounting is all about therefore she is finding it very dificult to understand and appreciate why we should do certain things in accounts. It is not possible for some one to perform functions of an accounting officer when he or she has no knowledge of the basic accounting fundermentals. Anulika does not understand accounts therefore, she is misplaced and hence the confusion. Suffice to metion that your office is responsible for creating this messy. Iam even thinking that you have deliberately chosen to give me an accounting officer who does not know accounts so that i fail to perform my duties effectively.I have supervised more than 100 members of statt at once before, and i have recorded better supervising results all the time. I do not believe that Anulika should become an impossible case for me to manage. She simply does not have accounts Knowledge and she is therefore denting my management style each time i instruct her to perform accounting functions in accordance to accounting starndards. Your office (H.R) has imposed Anulika to work in accounts department when you know very well that she does not posses accounting Knowledge. Therefore iam instructing your office to correct this irregularity as soon as possible so that i can begin to work normally and proffessionally.
I was also extremly shocked when Anulika metioned in presence of the Chief Executive Officer that she has authority to approve payments. This way of thinking is what has created most of the misunderstandings because she is misguided. If her job discription authorises her to approve payments, then your office should be blamed for duplicating responsibilities. Accounts only allows one prrson to approve payments at a time. It is the responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer to approve payments and he has delegated this responsibility to my office at the moment therefore we cannot share the same authority with my surbordinate which is deligated to me by my superior.
Iam also disppointed to observe that your office did not take time to study and understand the so called "pressure" in accounts department before writting to me. May I take this opportunity to correct your understanding that there is pressure in Finance department. There is no amount of pressure in accounts, the only difference that is creating this artificial pressure is the fact Anulika does not know accounts. you have just imposed her on me. Finally Iam requesting that Anolika be re allocated to onother office because apart from not knowing her job, she does not cooperate with me in any way, She does not respect me as an elderly person and does not take my instructions each time i talk to her. May Management considers to give me an alternative person who is well up dated with accounting Knwledge so that i can effectively perform my assigments without expiriencing un necessary disturbances.
Thanks. Mr George.
Please suggest reply to mr george.
From United Arab Emirates, Dubai
To: Ms Ibe. Annulika and Mr George Mushota.
CC: Human Resource, General Manager and CEO
Most recently complained that you were rude, belittling, and insulting each other at your front desks and in plain view. This was observed by other staff.
Within our own Finance Department, George Mushota complained that he was on the receiving end rude and unprofessional behaviour over the immediately stated him in office since last week of December. Since then, he has asked not to work with you or even be in your presence. Similarly, Ibe. Annulika has also asked that she not be assigned to work with you because of habitual rude and offensive behaviour.
Of great concern is your apparent failure to recognize or even admit that you people often overreact and lash out at each other’s. Employees are expected to work together as a team and expend whatever effort is necessary to provide quality service to the Premier Petroleum Limited as an organization. This is not to say that you cannot disagree with staff or other professionals. Rather, in addressing differences of opinions you cannot be combative, insulting, belittling, or rude. This only creates friction, diminishes morale and teamwork, and poorly reflects upon the Premier Petroleum Limited. You must show empathy, deal courteously with individuals, appreciate their differences, and handle emotions. When appropriate, you must show compassion for each other’s and recognize the contribution of each other as a team.
Equally important is that you need to listen to what others are saying.
In short, you both must agree to abide by the following principles by which you will conduct yourself in the workplace:
• You both will employ collective decision-making with your work’s and outside professionals and contacts to assure positive teamwork and maximize the goals of the Premier Petroleum Limited;
• You both will have respect for each other’s abilities, contributions, and values to the Premier Petroleum Limited;
• Ine Annulika will recognize that you can learn from your co-workers & Mr George Mushota.
• You both will deal with co-workers and others in a professional and courteous manner at all times.
• You will deal with conflict in a forthright and constructive manner and with tolerance for the differences of others.
1. In addition, I recognize that you may have certain ideas to improve your performance. Therefore, I encourage you to provide your own Personal Improvement Plan Input and Suggestions:
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________________________ __________
__________________________________ ________________________
Employee Signature Date
By
Mr George finance manager replied
To Human Resource office : Att of Madam Nafisa. Iam very surprised in the first place to observe that iam receiving mail with contets of this nature from your office because administratively the office ranking does not allow you to do so. Iam officially holding an office which is higher than your office and you can not under normal circumstances raise any disciplinery issues against me. Coming to the issues that you have raised, may i help you to understand that there is no pressure in accounts at all. the only issue that seem to be a problem is lack of appreciation by my surbordinate to understand the accounting World. She does not really understand what accounting is all about therefore she is finding it very dificult to understand and appreciate why we should do certain things in accounts. It is not possible for some one to perform functions of an accounting officer when he or she has no knowledge of the basic accounting fundermentals. Anulika does not understand accounts therefore, she is misplaced and hence the confusion. Suffice to metion that your office is responsible for creating this messy. Iam even thinking that you have deliberately chosen to give me an accounting officer who does not know accounts so that i fail to perform my duties effectively.I have supervised more than 100 members of statt at once before, and i have recorded better supervising results all the time. I do not believe that Anulika should become an impossible case for me to manage. She simply does not have accounts Knowledge and she is therefore denting my management style each time i instruct her to perform accounting functions in accordance to accounting starndards. Your office (H.R) has imposed Anulika to work in accounts department when you know very well that she does not posses accounting Knowledge. Therefore iam instructing your office to correct this irregularity as soon as possible so that i can begin to work normally and proffessionally.
I was also extremly shocked when Anulika metioned in presence of the Chief Executive Officer that she has authority to approve payments. This way of thinking is what has created most of the misunderstandings because she is misguided. If her job discription authorises her to approve payments, then your office should be blamed for duplicating responsibilities. Accounts only allows one prrson to approve payments at a time. It is the responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer to approve payments and he has delegated this responsibility to my office at the moment therefore we cannot share the same authority with my surbordinate which is deligated to me by my superior.
Iam also disppointed to observe that your office did not take time to study and understand the so called "pressure" in accounts department before writting to me. May I take this opportunity to correct your understanding that there is pressure in Finance department. There is no amount of pressure in accounts, the only difference that is creating this artificial pressure is the fact Anulika does not know accounts. you have just imposed her on me. Finally Iam requesting that Anolika be re allocated to onother office because apart from not knowing her job, she does not cooperate with me in any way, She does not respect me as an elderly person and does not take my instructions each time i talk to her. May Management considers to give me an alternative person who is well up dated with accounting Knwledge so that i can effectively perform my assigments without expiriencing un necessary disturbances.
Thanks. Mr George.
Please suggest reply to mr george.
From United Arab Emirates, Dubai
Firstly, it is clear from the Maternity Benefit Act that an employee needs to have worked for 80 days in the preceding year or before the expected date of delivery. Based on the information provided, it appears that she has recently joined. In this regard, the following points are important for your consideration:
1. Firstly, examine the circumstances contributing to her underperformance. Do not use the pregnancy period as a criterion for termination. You can initiate termination proceedings during the probationary period after providing a show cause notice, but terminating a pregnant woman during this time goes against HR best practices.
2. Although she is on probation, you must approve leaves for her, and these leaves will be without pay.
3. Allow her some time to demonstrate her performance as the pregnancy period is crucial for any woman, and termination may cause mental stress. Therefore, as a compassionate human being, try to understand her situation. From an HR perspective, why was she hired without a medical fitness certificate (regarding pregnancy/other health conditions)?
Regards,
Vijayender Chandel
From India, Shahkot
1. Firstly, examine the circumstances contributing to her underperformance. Do not use the pregnancy period as a criterion for termination. You can initiate termination proceedings during the probationary period after providing a show cause notice, but terminating a pregnant woman during this time goes against HR best practices.
2. Although she is on probation, you must approve leaves for her, and these leaves will be without pay.
3. Allow her some time to demonstrate her performance as the pregnancy period is crucial for any woman, and termination may cause mental stress. Therefore, as a compassionate human being, try to understand her situation. From an HR perspective, why was she hired without a medical fitness certificate (regarding pregnancy/other health conditions)?
Regards,
Vijayender Chandel
From India, Shahkot
power point presentation of the above case.please give your valuable feedback.
From India, New Delhi
From India, New Delhi
Hello everyone,
My name is Bishan Singh, currently pursuing an MBA from Delhi. I am available to assist any company (Delhi-based) looking to conduct research on their company to identify any flaws or to research their employees, particularly internal customers. Our team consists of experienced faculty members and young, energetic students who can dedicate their time and knowledge to the research.
If anyone is interested, please allow us the opportunity to assist.
Thank you.
Best regards,
Bishan Singh
Mobile no. 9899323833
Attribution: https://www.citehr.com/451856-may-i-...#ixzz2MhHZ5LPb
From India, New Delhi
My name is Bishan Singh, currently pursuing an MBA from Delhi. I am available to assist any company (Delhi-based) looking to conduct research on their company to identify any flaws or to research their employees, particularly internal customers. Our team consists of experienced faculty members and young, energetic students who can dedicate their time and knowledge to the research.
If anyone is interested, please allow us the opportunity to assist.
Thank you.
Best regards,
Bishan Singh
Mobile no. 9899323833
Attribution: https://www.citehr.com/451856-may-i-...#ixzz2MhHZ5LPb
From India, New Delhi
Hi, there. You should wait until the probation period because every company evaluates the performance of employees during this time. If she does not perform satisfactorily after the probation period, then you should terminate her from the job.
Regarding the issue of pregnancy, that should also be considered. If she wants to take leave in this case, then leave should be granted for some days. However, if after completing the leave and probation period she does not perform well and satisfactorily, then you should terminate her.
In this situation, it is essential to consider both as an employee and as a person because in HR, it is necessary to consider both aspects.
From India, Delhi
Regarding the issue of pregnancy, that should also be considered. If she wants to take leave in this case, then leave should be granted for some days. However, if after completing the leave and probation period she does not perform well and satisfactorily, then you should terminate her.
In this situation, it is essential to consider both as an employee and as a person because in HR, it is necessary to consider both aspects.
From India, Delhi
Dear all Learned Friends,
I need your suggestions on a case related to pregnancy. A confirmed Sales executive received a performance increment in April 2014 and was put on a PIP in August '14 for one month when she applied for Maternity Leave. The employer placed her on a PIP when she was seven months pregnant. She was so mentally depressed that she delivered a seven-month premature baby, and the doctor also mentioned in the discharge certificate that she is suffering from depression and stress.
Is it legally viable to put a confirmed employee on a PIP because of a fabricated non-performance story? The lady has been working in an MNC Surgical Company as a sales executive for the last two years.
Please suggest.
Regards
From India, Mumbai
I need your suggestions on a case related to pregnancy. A confirmed Sales executive received a performance increment in April 2014 and was put on a PIP in August '14 for one month when she applied for Maternity Leave. The employer placed her on a PIP when she was seven months pregnant. She was so mentally depressed that she delivered a seven-month premature baby, and the doctor also mentioned in the discharge certificate that she is suffering from depression and stress.
Is it legally viable to put a confirmed employee on a PIP because of a fabricated non-performance story? The lady has been working in an MNC Surgical Company as a sales executive for the last two years.
Please suggest.
Regards
From India, Mumbai
If, due to her annual performance, she received an increment in April 2014, what targets were assigned after April 2014? If not, it is arbitrary to set new targets in August 2014 after she applied for maternity leave. In fact, it is in violation of section 4(2) and (3) of the Maternity Benefit Act. Though a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) can be challenged before the concerned authorities under the Act, firstly, examine her primary duties to determine if she falls under the definition of a 'workman' as per the Industrial Disputes Act. If so, then implementing a new PIP is also in violation of section 9A of the Industrial Disputes Act. Take appropriate action under the Industrial Disputes Act and the Maternity Benefit Act.
Thanks,
Sushil
From India, New Delhi
Thanks,
Sushil
From India, New Delhi
In continuation of the above viewpoint, I feel that the employee, being a sales executive of a surgical company, which may be said to fall in the category of a pharmaceutical company, the provisions of the Sales Employees (Conditions of Service) Act, 1976, apply to her. She has to be treated as a workman, and thus under section 38-B of the Bombay Shops and Establishment Act, the provisions of Industrial Employment Standing Orders are applicable to her. If that be so, the only misconduct applicable is "habitual negligence or neglect of work." The proposed action of the employer can never be said to fall under the habitual category, especially just after her giving maternity notice. Thus, any proposed action of the employer can be successfully challenged.
Furthermore, under section 9A of the ID Act, the employer could not have changed conditions of service by laying down new standards of job duties or targets. It also leads to unfair labor practices on the part of the employer when it is acting against the above said provisions of the MB Act.
Thanks,
Sushil
From India, New Delhi
Furthermore, under section 9A of the ID Act, the employer could not have changed conditions of service by laying down new standards of job duties or targets. It also leads to unfair labor practices on the part of the employer when it is acting against the above said provisions of the MB Act.
Thanks,
Sushil
From India, New Delhi
Don't terminate her immediately. In your company's HR policy, did you mention termination of pregnancy during the probation period? You can assess her performance first. Call her and talk to her about her performance, give her a chance to improve, and inform her that if she does not improve, management will take immediate action against her. Check her improvements and then take necessary action.
From India, Madras
From India, Madras
Act doesn't say anywhere that if a female employee is pregnant and not performing well, it means you can't terminate her. However, here you have to follow the company policy and handle such situations with care. My suggestion is to extend her probation period by 3 months. Issue her a letter stating that she will be under observation for XYZ days, and if she doesn't show improvement in her performance, the company may take strict action. This approach ensures that the company is on the safer side and avoids any abrupt actions.
Regards, Rupendra
From India, New Delhi
Regards, Rupendra
From India, New Delhi
Pregnancy shall not be taken as a blanket to cover an employee's non-performance. It should not be taken as a protective device either. Though, by virtue of Section 12 of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, dismissal or discharge of a woman during her absence in accordance with the provisions of the Act (that is during maternity leave days) is unlawful, the proviso to Section 12(2)(a) states that dismissal or discharge during this period for any offense of gross misconduct is lawful.
Here, a non-performing employee shall be warned and punished as per the existing norms of the company. Pregnancy should not be seen as an armor to continue such misconduct (non-performance is, in effect, a misconduct). However, in such occasions, the usual practice is to keep quiet so as to avoid numerous queries and accusations of having harassed a pregnant woman employee.
Regards,
Madhu.T.K
From India, Kannur
Here, a non-performing employee shall be warned and punished as per the existing norms of the company. Pregnancy should not be seen as an armor to continue such misconduct (non-performance is, in effect, a misconduct). However, in such occasions, the usual practice is to keep quiet so as to avoid numerous queries and accusations of having harassed a pregnant woman employee.
Regards,
Madhu.T.K
From India, Kannur
Hi, I am going through the same phase. I asked for a department change so that I can show my performance is not below grade, but my department director is making a case against me. He has to transfer me to another department, but he is not signing and attending the meetings related to this issue. He claims he has a heavy workload and is ill, which prevents him from attending meetings, and no one can pressure him because of his high position. All HR and other departments know that he is harassing me, yet they can't do anything about it.
Now, please advise me on what I should do?
From United Kingdom, undefined
Now, please advise me on what I should do?
From United Kingdom, undefined
Gathering data for an AI comment.... Sending emails to relevant members...
Looking for something specific? - Join & Be Part Of Our Community and get connected with the right people who can help. Our AI-powered platform provides real-time fact-checking, peer-reviewed insights, and a vast historical knowledge base to support your search.