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Introduction

Employee absconding is a significant challenge in corporate India today.
Data by HRhelpdesk (2023) shows that 1 in 10 employees in organized sectors either leave without notice or do not complete exit formalities, impacting the company's operations, compliance, and morale.

In such cases, drafting a proper legal notice becomes essential — not just to assert the company's rights, but to document efforts to maintain professionalism, demand accountability, and take legal action if necessary.

Meaning of Absconding and Absconder

Absconding refers to an employee's unauthorized and unexplained absence from the workplace without proper intimation, resignation, or fulfilling exit obligations.

An absconder is defined as:

1. A person who leaves employment abruptly,

2. Fails to communicate reasons,

3. Disregards formal exit procedures,

4. Becomes unreachable by all reasonable means.

HR experts globally consider absconding a serious breach of organizational discipline and contract obligations.

Why Does an Employee Abscond?

Understanding the root causes helps in preventive HR measures.
According to a PeopleMatters Report (2022), top reasons employees abscond include:

Why Issue a Legal Notice for an Absconding Employee?

The primary reasons include:

• Formal documentation: Serves as proof that the company attempted reasonable communication.

• Legal safeguard: Strengthens case for recovery suits or criminal complaints if necessary.

• Asset recovery: Ensures return of laptops, ID cards, documents, etc.

• Notice period enforcement: Helps recover pending dues as per employment contract.

• Protects brand image: Avoids reputational damage during background verification checks.

Thus, a legal notice is not optional — it’s a strategic tool for compliance and business continuity.

Is Absconding a Crime in India?

Not directly.

➔ Absconding from employment is a contractual breach, not a criminal offense by itself.

However, it may amount to a criminal offense under certain circumstances, such as:

Thus, the nature of the offense determines whether civil or criminal action is taken.

Absconding Employee and Indian Laws: Quick Overview

1. No separate "Absconding Law" exists in India.

2. Employers act based on:

   • Employment Agreements (contractual remedies),

   • Company HR Policies,

   • Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 for labor compliance,

   • Shops and Establishments Act (state-specific regulations).

Example:

• Under Model Standing Orders under Industrial Employment Act, 1946, unauthorized absenteeism for more than 8 consecutive days is deemed misconduct and can lead to termination after a domestic inquiry.

What Should Employers Do Before Issuing a Legal Notice?

Step 1: Exhaust All Means of Contact

• Phone calls (minimum 2 attempts)

• Official emails (minimum 2–3 emails)

• Letters to permanent residential address

• Contact emergency contact/family if available

Step 2: Review Company Policies and Agreements

• Examine notice period clauses.

• Check clauses regarding unauthorized absence, asset return, confidentiality, etc.

Step 3: Check for Sensitive Dependencies

• Client-facing employees, project handovers, laptop returns — prioritize recovering these assets.

Step 4: Document Everything

• Maintain communication logs, call recordings (if applicable), courier receipts, email screenshots.

When Can a Legal Notice Be Issued?

Issue a legal notice if:

1. Absence exceeds 2–5 working days without any communication (depending on policy).

2. No response after initial reminders (email, phone, address).

3. Company assets are still in employee's possession.

4. Notice period obligations are unmet.

Best Practice:
Issue within 7–15 days from the last working day for optimal legal defensibility.

Elements to Include in a Legal Notice for an Absconding Employee

A strong legal notice should cover:

Sample Format of Legal Notice to Absconding Employee

[On Company Letterhead]

Date: [Insert Date]
Ref: [Employee Code/Notice Number]

To,
[Employee Name]
[Address]
[City, State – Zip Code]

Subject: Notice Regarding Unauthorized Absence and Breach of Employment Contract

Dear [Employee Name],

You have been absent from your duties at [Company Name] since [Date] without any intimation, approval, or valid justification. Despite multiple attempts via email and phone on [dates], we have not received any response from your end.

This conduct constitutes a grave violation of your employment obligations under Clause [X] of your Employment Agreement dated [Insert Date].

As per company policy and the applicable legal framework, you are hereby directed to:

1. Submit a written explanation for your unauthorized absence within 7 days.

2. Return company assets including [list items] immediately.

3. Pay the notice period compensation equivalent to [X] months' salary, amounting to ₹[Amount].

Failing compliance, the company reserves the right to:

1. Initiate civil and/or criminal proceedings,

2. Seek recovery of losses,

3. Blacklist you with background verification agencies.

Please treat this matter with urgency and sincerity.

Yours Sincerely,
[Authorized Signatory]
[Designation]
[Company Name]
[Contact Email]
[Phone Number]
[Company Seal]

After Sending the Legal Notice: What Happens?

If the Employee Responds

• Try to resolve the matter amicably: settlement of dues, asset recovery, formal resignation.

If the Employee Does Not Respond

1. Serve a termination letter.

2. Initiate recovery suit in civil court.

3. File a criminal complaint (if assets are misappropriated or fraud is involved).

Fact:
Recovery suits must be filed within 3 years from the cause of action (Limitation Act, 1963).

Real Case References on Employee Absconding

Common Mistakes Companies Should Avoid

1. Using emotional or threatening language.
2. Sending legal notice casually via email without registered post.
3. Not preserving communication evidence.
4. Not referencing employment agreement clauses clearly.
5. Giving too short a response window (less than 7 days).

Best Practices for Drafting the Notice

1. Use professional, neutral language.

2. Quote specific clauses of the employment contract.

3. Clearly mention the next steps if the employee does not respond.

4. Always send via Registered Post (with AD) or through a courier with tracking ID.

5. Retain a copy of the legal notice and postal proof for future legal proceedings.

Conclusion

Absconding is an unprofessional and unethical exit behavior that can seriously harm an organization.
Issuing a proper, detailed legal notice ensures:

1. Legal protection,
2. Professional handling of the situation,
3. Recovery of assets and dues,
4. Maintenance of corporate discipline.

Employers must be prompt, precise, and legally compliant while drafting and serving such notices.
When handled well, it sends a strong message that absconding will not be tolerated — preserving the organization's reputation and operational strength.

Introduction

The National Lok Adalat 2025 is a significant opportunity for vehicle owners in Delhi to settle their pending traffic challans at discounted rates. Organized by the National Legal Services Authority, this initiative allows individuals to clear compoundable traffic challans conveniently online. The Delhi State Legal Service Authority has released an official notification detailing the schedule and process for participating in the Lok Adalat. 

What is National Lok Adalat 2025?

The National Lok Adalat is an alternative dispute resolution mechanism that aims to settle pending cases amicably without lengthy court proceedings. For 2025, the National Legal Services Authority has focused on resolving pending traffic challans to help vehicle owners clear their dues efficiently. The initiative provides a golden chance to pay off challans with special discounts, making it an attractive option for those with outstanding dues.

Key Dates for National Lok Adalat 2025

The Delhi Traffic Police Department has announced the following dates for National Lok Adalat 2025:

• First Lok Adalat: 8 March 2025

• Second Lok Adalat: 10 May 2025

• Third Lok Adalat: 13 September 2025

• Fourth Lok Adalat: 13 December 2025

Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Official Website: traffic.delhipolice.gov.in

Benefits of Participating in National Lok Adalat 2025

1. Special Discounts: Avail discounts on pending traffic challans.

2. Convenient Online Process: Pay dues online without visiting traffic offices.

3. Quick Settlement: No lengthy court procedures; get disputes resolved swiftly.

4. Legal Closure: Obtain legal closure for pending challans and avoid future complications.

5. Eligibility for NOC: Clear all dues to become eligible for the No Objection Certificate (NOC) for your vehicle.

Eligibility Criteria for National Lok Adalat 2025

To participate in the National Lok Adalat, vehicle owners must ensure:

1. They have pending compoundable traffic challans.

2. They complete the online registration process for the token.

3. All required documents, such as vehicle registration and previous challan receipts, are readily available.

How to Register for National Lok Adalat 2025

To register for the National Lok Adalat 2025, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official Website:
   Go to traffic.delhipolice.gov.in.

2. Select the Lok Adalat Option:
   On the homepage, click on the "Delhi State Legal Service Authority" option.

3. Open Token Registration Form:
   A new tab will open with the token registration form.

4. Fill in the Required Details:
   Enter your name, contact number, vehicle registration number, and pending challan details accurately.

5. Submit the Form:
   After filling in the details, click on the "Submit" button.

6. Download the Token:
   A confirmation message with a download link for the Lok Adalat Token will appear. Click on the link to download and save the token for further use.

How to Download Challan Token for National Lok Adalat 2025

1. Go to the Official Website:
   Access traffic.delhipolice.gov.in.

2. Select the Token Download Option:
   Choose "Challan Token Download" under the Lok Adalat section.

3. Enter Required Details:
   Provide your vehicle registration number and mobile number.

4. Download the Token:
   Click on "Download" to get your Lok Adalat Challan Token.

5. Save the Token:
   Save the downloaded token on your device for presenting at the Lok Adalat.

How to Check Pending Challan Status Online

If you want to check the status of your pending challans before registering for the Lok Adalat:

1. Visit the Official Website:
   Go to traffic.delhipolice.gov.in.

2. Click on ‘Pending Challan/Notice’:
   On the homepage, select the "Pending Challan/Notice" option.

3. Enter Vehicle or Notice Number:
   Provide your vehicle registration number or notice number.

4. Check Details:
   Click on "Search" to view the pending challan details.

5. Download or Print:
   You can download or print the details for future reference.

How to Pay Pending Traffic Challans Online

1. Visit the Traffic Police Portal:
   Go to traffic.delhipolice.gov.in.

2. Search Challan:
   Click on "Traffic Challan" and enter the vehicle or notice number.

3. View Pending Dues:
   A list of pending challans will appear. Check the details carefully.

4. Make Payment:
   Click on "Pay" and proceed with online payment options such as UPI, Net Banking, or Debit/Credit Cards.

5. Receipt Confirmation:
   After payment, download the payment receipt for your records.

Guidelines for National Lok Adalat 2025

• Limited Slots: Each Lok Adalat Bench can handle a maximum of 1,000 challans.

• Inclusive for All: Applicable for all types of vehicles, including commercial ones.

• Mandatory Documents: Carry a valid ID proof, vehicle registration certificate, and a printout of the challan token.

• Timely Presence: Reach the venue as per the slot timing to avoid delays.

How to Generate NOC for Your Vehicle

If your vehicle has no pending challans, you can generate the No Objection Certificate (NOC) online:

1. Access the Official Website:
   Go to traffic.delhipolice.gov.in.

2. Choose ‘Pending Challan and Notice’:
   Click on the "Generate NOC" option.

3. Enter Vehicle Details:
   Provide your vehicle registration number.

4. Download NOC:
   Click on "Next" to generate and download the NOC.

Important Tips for Smooth Process

1. Register Early: Slots fill quickly; complete token registration as soon as possible.

2. Keep Documents Handy: Prepare vehicle RC, ID proof, and previous challan receipts.

3. Follow Official Updates: Check the official website for any last-minute changes in schedule.

Conclusion

The National Lok Adalat 2025 presents a valuable opportunity for vehicle owners to clear pending traffic challans efficiently and at discounted rates. By following the above steps, you can complete the registration, download your token, and check the challan status seamlessly. Ensure to register early to avoid last-minute rush and take advantage of this golden chance to resolve your pending traffic dues.

For more updates, keep visiting the official website: traffic.delhipolice.gov.in.

Introduction

India is a diverse country with multiple religions, languages, and cultures coexisting. However, such diversity can sometimes lead to conflicts. Recognizing the potential threats to social harmony, Section 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) addresses the promotion of enmity between different groups and actions prejudicial to public peace. This provision aims to maintain harmony by preventing speech, writing, or activities that incite hatred among communities.

What is Section 196 of BNS?

Section 196 prohibits individuals from using spoken or written language, signs, visual representations, electronic communication, or other means to promote disharmony or hatred among groups based on religion, race, language, caste, or community. Additionally, it criminalizes acts that disrupt public tranquillity or train individuals in violence against any group.

Punishment:

1. Up to three years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.

2. If the offense occurs inside a place of worship, the punishment extends to five years of imprisonment and a fine.

Legal Text of Section 196

1. Whoever:
   (a) Promotes or attempts to promote disharmony, hatred, or ill-will between religious, racial, linguistic, or regional groups through words, signs, visible representations, or electronic communication.
   (b) Commits acts prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony that disturb or may disturb public tranquillity.
   (c) Organizes or participates in activities involving criminal force or violence, intending or knowing it is likely to incite violence against any group, thereby causing fear, alarm, or insecurity.
   Shall be punished with imprisonment up to three years, a fine, or both.

2. Offenses committed in places of worship

   • If the act is committed inside a religious place or during religious ceremonies, the offender shall be punished with imprisonment up to five years and a fine.

Key Interpretations of Section 196

1. Forms of Communication Covered

1. Spoken or written words (speeches, books, pamphlets, social media posts).

2. Signs or visible representations (symbols, posters, banners).

3. Electronic communication (text messages, videos, social media content).

4. Any other medium used to incite hatred.

2. Types of Acts Prejudicial to Harmony

1. Public speeches that provoke hatred among different communities.

2. Organizing protests, rallies, or events that encourage violence.

3. Spreading false information that fuels communal tensions.

4. Publishing offensive content targeting specific religious or racial groups.

3. Training and Organizing for Violence

1. Conducting military-style training for aggression against any community.

2. Forming groups that promote or engage in violence against specific populations.

3. Propaganda that encourages attacks or unrest against a group.

Offenses Against Public Tranquillity (Chapter XI of BNS)

Section 196 falls under Chapter XI - Offenses Against Public Tranquillity, which deals with crimes that disturb society’s peace. Such acts, including rioting and hate speech, create fear and instability, harming the social order. Maintaining tranquillity is crucial for a functioning democracy.

Comparison with Section 153A of the IPC

Enforcement and Challenges in Implementing Section 196

1. Balancing Free Speech and Social Harmony

Ensuring freedom of speech while preventing hate speech is a challenge. There is a risk of misuse of the law to suppress dissenting opinions. Courts must carefully interpret cases to distinguish between criticism and incitement to violence.

2. Misuse for Political Gain

Politicians and groups have sometimes used similar provisions to target rivals, suppress criticism, or settle political scores. Proper guidelines must prevent such misuse.

3. Challenges in Proving Intent

A key element in prosecution is proving the intent behind statements or actions. Courts require clear evidence that the accused sought to create enmity rather than merely expressing an opinion.

4. Regulating Online Hate Speech

Social media has become a major platform for hate speech and misinformation. Enforcing Section 196 against digital offenses requires collaboration between the government and tech companies to track and remove hateful content promptly.

Notable Case Laws on Promoting Enmity

1. Bilal Ahmed Kaloo vs. State of Andhra Pradesh (1997)

• The Supreme Court ruled that intent to incite violence must be proven beyond reasonable doubt for a conviction under hate speech laws.

2. Manzar Sayeed Khan vs. State of Maharashtra (2007)

• The Court held that mere criticism does not amount to promoting enmity unless it directly incites violence.

3. Pravasi Bhalai Sangathan vs. Union of India (2014)

• The case emphasized the need for stricter laws against hate speech, particularly in the digital age.

4. Narendra Kumar Arya vs. State of Rajasthan (2015)

• Political speeches that incite hatred do not fall under free speech protections.

Real-World Examples of Section 196 Violations

1. Politician’s Hate Speech

A political leader makes an inflammatory speech blaming a religious group for crimes in an area. Following public complaints, authorities investigate, leading to restrictions on the politician’s campaign.

2. Online Hate Campaign

A viral social media post falsely blames a community for an economic crisis, leading to communal tensions. Authorities track the source and take legal action under Section 196.

3. Religious Intolerance in Schools

A university is accused of discriminating against students from a linguistic minority. After an investigation, the administration introduces policies to support linguistic diversity and inclusivity.

The Importance of Section 196 in Modern Society

1. Prevents Social Unrest: Stops the spread of hatred that can lead to riots and violence.

2. Promotes Inter-Community Harmony: Encourages peaceful coexistence in a diverse nation.

3. Regulates Political and Social Conduct: Ensures public figures and media platforms do not incite enmity.

4. Maintains Law and Order: Protects citizens from hate crimes and violence.

5. Strengthens Democracy: Ensures all communities feel safe and respected, fostering national unity.

Conclusion

Section 196 of the BNS plays a vital role in preventing enmity and maintaining public harmony. While it safeguards society from hate speech and violence, its enforcement must be balanced to protect freedom of speech. With proper implementation, Section 196 can help build a more inclusive, respectful, and peaceful society.