From the last 7 days, I have been on the bench at an Indian number 3 IT Company. I received a call from the RMG stating that I have to relocate for a new project. I explained to them that I need to take care of my aging parents as they are in poor health and I do not have any siblings. I am also unmarried. The RMG representative responded by saying that family is more important than the job and that I do not have the right to refuse due to being on the bench. They mentioned that the final decision could result in termination. Is it possible for them to terminate me because I declined to relocate?
From India, Pune
From India, Pune
Dear Vishal,
While issuing the appointment letter to the employees, most companies include a clause related to the transfer of the employee from one location to another. The transfer is an administrative requirement, and generally, top leadership does not like any interference in their decision.
Now, you say that you have a family problem. In that case, I recommend you submit an application to the authorities concerned to consider your case compassionately and put the transfer on hold. Depending on the validity of the grounds, they will make the appropriate decision.
However, if the decision goes against you, then you will have to comply with the Transfer Order and move to the new location. I understand this may also strain you financially. Nevertheless, for the sake of employment continuity, you need to compromise. It is not advisable to resign out of frustration. You work for a reputable company, and finding a job in such companies is not easy.
Therefore, take a holistic view of the current situation. Identify ways to provide assistance to your aged parents. Filial responsibility does not necessarily mean being physically close to parents forever. Secondly, some adjustment is expected from the parents regarding their son's career.
You are an only child and will remain so. This is a fait accompli. While pursuing your career, there was always a possibility of physical separation. Unfortunately, that possibility has now become a reality. However, remember that separation is not alienation. Distance does not weaken the bond of kinship.
Generally, women leave their home to move to their husband's home after marriage. What happens to the parents of a single daughter? Don't they get married off?
Emotions are crucial in life, but when making decisions, it's essential to use your head, not just your heart.
Thanks,
Dinesh Diekar
From India, Bangalore
While issuing the appointment letter to the employees, most companies include a clause related to the transfer of the employee from one location to another. The transfer is an administrative requirement, and generally, top leadership does not like any interference in their decision.
Now, you say that you have a family problem. In that case, I recommend you submit an application to the authorities concerned to consider your case compassionately and put the transfer on hold. Depending on the validity of the grounds, they will make the appropriate decision.
However, if the decision goes against you, then you will have to comply with the Transfer Order and move to the new location. I understand this may also strain you financially. Nevertheless, for the sake of employment continuity, you need to compromise. It is not advisable to resign out of frustration. You work for a reputable company, and finding a job in such companies is not easy.
Therefore, take a holistic view of the current situation. Identify ways to provide assistance to your aged parents. Filial responsibility does not necessarily mean being physically close to parents forever. Secondly, some adjustment is expected from the parents regarding their son's career.
You are an only child and will remain so. This is a fait accompli. While pursuing your career, there was always a possibility of physical separation. Unfortunately, that possibility has now become a reality. However, remember that separation is not alienation. Distance does not weaken the bond of kinship.
Generally, women leave their home to move to their husband's home after marriage. What happens to the parents of a single daughter? Don't they get married off?
Emotions are crucial in life, but when making decisions, it's essential to use your head, not just your heart.
Thanks,
Dinesh Diekar
From India, Bangalore
Transfers are a part and parcel of employment. Big companies do have branches, projects, etc., in other places, and in the company's interest, they may transfer people. Probably, you can submit an application on compassionate grounds for some time while arrangements can be made for parents. You will have to take a call and handle this carefully.
From India, Pune
From India, Pune
Hi Vishal,
If I am right, you posted this question just yesterday on 7-Apr-20. Please correct me if I am wrong. If this is the case, then it doesn't make sense to ask to relocate during a lockdown period and with the COVID-19 risk still high in the country. You can request the management to consider the age of your parents and express your concerns about who would take care of them in case of any unfortunate event at this time. No management would want to take such a risk by formally turning down an employee's request to take care of his aged parents during a pandemic.
From India, Bengaluru
If I am right, you posted this question just yesterday on 7-Apr-20. Please correct me if I am wrong. If this is the case, then it doesn't make sense to ask to relocate during a lockdown period and with the COVID-19 risk still high in the country. You can request the management to consider the age of your parents and express your concerns about who would take care of them in case of any unfortunate event at this time. No management would want to take such a risk by formally turning down an employee's request to take care of his aged parents during a pandemic.
From India, Bengaluru
Today, I received a call from the HR team, so I told them the entire story that RMG has been threatening me for the last couple of days. They said, as per company policy, no one can force an employee to relocate. I have a 2-month bench period, so they will find me a new project in the same location. That's great - HR is supporting me in this matter.
From India, Pune
From India, Pune
This is good news, Vishal.
It would be helpful if you could send an email to the HR team describing the situation you have been facing and then thanking them for the support. This email would serve as a record of the incidents that have just occurred.
The next step would be to get into any project close to your skill set that you find now, even if the project may not be an exact match for your skills. This is because in a couple of months, when the lockdown starts getting lifted in phases, there is a chance of forced resignations occurring, and employees on the bench would be the first targets.
At that time, if you are on a project, your chances of retention are high. Later, after the mandatory service period on the project, you can request a release to another project.
From India, Bengaluru
It would be helpful if you could send an email to the HR team describing the situation you have been facing and then thanking them for the support. This email would serve as a record of the incidents that have just occurred.
The next step would be to get into any project close to your skill set that you find now, even if the project may not be an exact match for your skills. This is because in a couple of months, when the lockdown starts getting lifted in phases, there is a chance of forced resignations occurring, and employees on the bench would be the first targets.
At that time, if you are on a project, your chances of retention are high. Later, after the mandatory service period on the project, you can request a release to another project.
From India, Bengaluru
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.