Infosys, one of India’s leading IT giants, is facing allegations of violating the Apprentices Act, 1961, and the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992, following the termination of hundreds of apprentices.
Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has taken up the matter for examination after receiving complaints from NITES.
This development has sparked widespread debate about the treatment of apprentices and the legal framework governing their employment.
Allegations Against Infosys
The controversy began when NITES, an IT employee union, filed complaints with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the Ministry of Education.
The union alleged that Infosys had forcibly terminated approximately 700 apprentices who were enrolled under the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) in October 2024.
According to NITES, these terminations were carried out in violation of statutory provisions, including compensation for termination, probation periods, and early termination procedures.
The union further claimed that Infosys coerced apprentices into signing mutual separation agreements under duress.
Reports suggest that the company allegedly deployed security personnel to intimidate apprentices and summoned them to meeting rooms at its Mysore campus.
The company reportedly barred apprentices from carrying mobile phones, limiting their ability to document the situation or seek assistance.
Ministry’s Response and Infosys’ Defense
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has forwarded the complaints to its Apprenticeship Division for examination and appropriate action.
A letter from the ministry, reviewed by media outlets, stated that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Apprenticeship Division.
This division has been tasked with investigating the allegations.
The ministry has also requested an action-taken report to be shared with the complainants.
Infosys denies the allegations and maintains that it conducted the terminations in accordance with apprenticeship contracts.
The company stated that the apprentices failed to clear three rounds of internal assessments. These assessments are part of its rigorous hiring process.
Infosys emphasized that these assessments ensure a high quality of talent for its global clients.
The company has also rejected claims of coercion and unethical practices.
Karnataka Labour Department’s Findings and Broader Implications
The Karnataka labour department conducted an interim inquiry into the matter and found no violations of labour laws by Infosys.
However, NITES has contested these findings.
They argue that the labour department’s report fails to address the alleged violations of the Apprentices Act and Apprenticeship Rules.
The labour department is finalizing its report, and its conclusions could significantly impact the case.
The allegations against Infosys have raised concerns about the treatment of apprentices in India’s IT sector.
NITES has warned that such actions could weaken the apprenticeship system. This system provides skill development and ensures employment stability.
The union has called for stricter regulations to protect apprentices from exploitation and ensure compliance with legal provisions.
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