Employer refusing to provide release letter - Is their any way?

My notice period is 60 days in my current organization, but I am giving them 31 days' notice. They are not willing to clear my dues or release me. I have already provided a proper handover and knowledge transfer. Is there any way by which I can obtain a release letter?

P.S. - Buyout option is not available. Currently, I am in my notice period.

Visit your nearest Labour Office. If that is not applicable, consult a good lawyer.

Firstly, when you have accepted the 60-day notice period, you should have stuck by it, or else you need to convince the management to get all dues, including the relieving letter. That is the best option. If those do not work out, then take a call for approaching other legal options, as they are all costly and time-consuming.

Either you have to convince the management of your early release or wait for the full notice period to be over. You cannot claim that you are entitled to be released in one month's time as you had accepted the term of a two-month notice at the time of joining. It is not something that has been added by the management subsequently and without mutual agreement. It is always better to avoid confrontation and see if your new employer can wait for the extended period. Moreover, if you can convince the new management, it would add value to yourself as being honest and trustworthy rather than fighting it out without much chance in this instance.

You can request your manager to waive the remaining notice period days, or else you will have to pay for the pending notice period days. This will ensure a smooth relieving process.