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Unpaid Wages in India? Know Your Rights & Legal Remedies By Advocate Raj Kumar Bhandari



Unpaid Wages in India? Know Your Rights & Legal Remedies

By Advocate Raj Kumar Bhandari

Have you worked diligently for days, weeks—or even months—only to be denied your salary?
You’re not alone.

Every year, thousands of workers across India report issues like non-payment of wages, delayed salaries, or illegal deductions. Fortunately, Indian labour laws protect you, and you can take legal action to recover your dues.

This blog post explains your rights, the relevant laws, and step-by-step actions you can take if your wages are withheld.

 

 Legal Rights of Workers Under Indian Labour Law

Two major laws safeguard your right to fair wages:

  • The Payment of Wages Act, 1936
  • The Minimum Wages Act, 1948

These laws ensure:

✅ Timely Payment:
Wages must be paid by the 7th or 10th of the following month, depending on the size of the establishment.

✅ Minimum Wage Guarantee:
You must receive at least the minimum wage fixed by your state government.

✅ No Arbitrary Deductions:
Employers cannot deduct wages unfairly. All deductions must be lawful and informed.

✅ Final Settlement:
If you leave or are terminated, your dues must be paid within two working days.

 

 Common Violations by Employers

  • Salary not paid at all
  • Salary paid below minimum wage
  • Unreasonable or undocumented deductions
  • Final dues not cleared after termination
  • “No work, no pay” threats without justification

Such actions are illegal and can be challenged under labour laws.

 

 What You Should Do: Step-by-Step Guide

 1. Collect and Save Proof

Gather as much documentation as possible:

  • Appointment letter / job ID / offer letter
  • Bank statements, salary slips, or UPI records
  • Chat/email conversations with employer
  • Names of co-workers as witnesses

Tip: Keep screenshots or photos of attendance registers, work logs, or any proof of duty performed.

 2. Politely Follow Up

Start with a written reminder to the employer via WhatsApp, email, or letter.
If they fail to respond or deny payment, proceed to legal steps.

 3. File a Complaint with the Labour Department

You can file a complaint:

  • Online: Through your State Labour Portal or the Shram Suvidha Portal
  • Offline: At the local Labour Commissioner’s Office or Labour Inspector's Office

Many issues are resolved at this stage without the need for court proceedings.

 4. File a Claim Under the Payment of Wages Act

This allows you to:

  • Legally demand unpaid wages
  • Receive compensation (up to 10x the delayed amount in some cases)
  • Initiate action against the employer

Note: The claim must be filed within 12 months of wage default.

 5. Approach Legal Aid or a Labour Advocate

If you’re unsure of the process or facing resistance:

  • Contact your District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) for free legal aid
  • Consult a labour law advocate to represent your case professionally

 

Real Case. Real Resolution.

Manoj Shah, a factory worker in Ludhiana, was denied two months' wages after his sudden termination. With assistance from a legal advisor and proper documentation, he filed a complaint and received full payment within 45 days—plus additional compensation.

Moral: Legal action works—when taken promptly and correctly.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Your Pay

Your labour is valuable. Your wages are your right.
Delaying or denying payment isn’t just unethical—it’s unlawful.

“A withheld salary is a denial of dignity. You don’t have to accept it silently.”

Speak up. Document everything. Take legal steps. Help is available.

Advocate Raj Kumar Bhandari & Associates

Business Management Consultant

Labour Law & Industrial Disputes Specialist

📍 Office Address: 4059, Phase-2, Urban Estate, Dugri, Ludhiana

✉️Email: pb@labourlawlawyers.com

📞 9814114883, 9855025790

 

 

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