The Telangana High Court has issued a notice to Tech Mahindra in Hyderabad for failing to provide a relieving letter to a former employee. This notice addresses concerns over employee rights related to the issuance of relieving letters.
The court has also summoned Vinay Agarwal, head-human resources department, to appear on 8 November. The situation stems from a notice sent by Balakrishna to Tech Mahindra in July, requesting his relieving letter.
Although the company eventually issued a letter, it allegedly included discriminatory remarks about his departure, contrasting with letters given to other exiting employees. Balakrishna’s advocate emphasised that employees have a statutory right to receive a relieving letter under the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act of 1946 and related rules.
After returning company assets, Balakrishna’s last working day was recorded as 28 February. However, he reportedly faced harassment for six months and did not receive a month’s salary, which is linked to the company’s refusal to issue the relieving letter.
A complaint was lodged with the joint commissioner of labour in Rangareddy district on 18 April. However, despite several meetings, Balakrishna was only provided a partial salary. It has been noted that under the Telangana Shops and Establishments Act, a two-month notice period for resignations is illegal.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about Tech Mahindra’s policies regarding working hours and leave, which were not mentioned in the offer letter, suggesting further violations of the 1946 Act.
