Termination Without Notice - Appointment Letter [Thread 489747]

Dear all,

How legal is it to terminate an employee without any notice, domestic enquiry, and show cause under the clause in the appointment letter: "If at any time in the opinion of the Company, which is final in this matter, you are insolvent or found guilty of dishonesty, disobedience, disorderly behavior, negligence, indiscipline, absent from duty without prior permission, committing a breach of any of the terms, conditions, and stipulations herein contained and on your part to be observed and performed or in violation of one or more terms of this letter, or any other conduct considered by the company detrimental to its interest, your services are liable to be terminated forthwith, without any notice/salary in lieu of notice period, without prejudice to any other action, rights, or remedies available at law."

How can this be challenged in court by my Manager (not a workman)?

Dear Adhi,

My humble presence in the text of the clause itself is void and does not abide by the law. Therefore, any termination without notice or enquiry based on such a clause defined in the appointment letter would be illegitimate.

I recommend issuing a show-cause notice, obtaining a written statement, constituting a committee, conducting an enquiry, and if any irregularities are found, drafting the proceedings. Subsequently, if misconduct is confirmed, proceed with dismissal by serving a termination order. Otherwise, there is a risk of facing legal action, and the company would be liable to compensate, including interest, arrears, etc.

Please rephrase the clause as the current wording is deemed void.

Thank you.

Dear Manoj,

Thank you for sharing your expert advice. If possible, please help me rephrase a legitimate clause. How can a clause be proven as void and illegitimate if challenged in Civil Court?

Warm Regards,
Tarun Adhikari
Mob: 9007068787

Tarun,

Welcome. Rephrasing the clauses requires a deep dive into the entire employment policy and demands research. Since this is a significant task, it falls under consulting, which is formally chargeable.