Your Employer Hasn't Paid Your Salary? Here's Exactly What Indian Law Says

Your employer has not paid you for weeks. Or they are deducting money without reason. Or they fired you and refused to give your dues. This happens to millions of Indians every year — and most don't know they have strong legal protection.

The Law Is Clear: Wages Must Be Paid on Time

Under the Payment of Wages Act, 1936:

• Wages must be paid by the 7th of the following month (factories/railways) or the 10th (all others)
• Any unauthorized deduction is illegal
• Penalty for non-payment: up to ₹7,500 fine and imprisonment

Step 1: Send a Written Demand

Write a letter to your employer demanding payment within 7 days. Keep a copy. Send it by registered post or WhatsApp (screenshot the delivery). This creates a paper trail.

Step 2: File a Complaint with the Labour Commissioner

Every district has a Labour Commissioner's office. File a complaint under Section 15 of the Payment of Wages Act. You can do this yourself — no lawyer needed. The Labour Commissioner can order your employer to pay within 30 days.

Step 3: Labour Court

If the Labour Commissioner doesn't act, file in the Labour Court under the Industrial Disputes Act. Cases are typically resolved in 3–6 months. You can claim double the amount owed as compensation.

Documents You Need

• Offer letter or employment contract
• Salary slips (if available)
• Bank statements showing last payment received
• Any written communication with employer

Get Your Documents Instantly

AskChanakya can generate a ready-to-file Labour Commissioner complaint letter for you in 60 seconds, in your language. Just describe your situation on WhatsApp.

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