Dear Members,
I am a Mechanical Engineer (HVAC specialization, Mumbai University – 2004) with more than 19 years of experience, including 5 years in Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Despite my qualifications, I am facing severe difficulties in securing stable employment in Mumbai and Pune. I am seeking guidance regarding my legal rights and possible remedies.
Issues I am facing:
1. Accommodation & Allowances: Employers are not providing company accommodation, and I am being forced to live on rent. For interviews, companies are not reimbursing travel costs or arranging video calls, which makes it financially difficult for me to attend.
2. Experience Recognition: Some employers are refusing to consider my Gulf experience as valid.
3. Software Licensing: Many companies are openly using unlicensed software (AutoCAD, etc.) but still demand that I be an expert in it. They are also ignoring the fact that tools like Revit and HVAC systems like VRV/VRF were not taught during my college years (2001–2004), yet are now industry standards.
4. Curriculum vs. Industry Practice: Employers are not considering my strong academic foundation in mechanical engineering and HVAC curriculum. Instead, they are rejecting candidates based on the latest software skills, which were unavailable in my study period.
5. Career Gaps: I have genuine career gaps due to COVID-19 and other personal issues, but employers are treating this as a negative factor instead of considering my overall experience.
6. Past Employment History: I have worked in nearly 20 companies and also had labor-related disputes in the past, which seems to affect my employability.
7. Personal Background: I went through a divorce and psychological counseling (diagnosed with schizophrenia, I am fighting case against wrongful diagnosis), which has added to my difficulties. Despite this, I remain capable of working and contributing.
8. Family & Financial Hardship: My parents are disabled and less educated, with no livelihood. They are demanding rent from me since they cannot sustain themselves. I urgently need a stable job in Mumbai to support them and myself.
My Queries to the Forum:
What are my legal rights if employers refuse to recognize my valid Gulf experience?
Can a candidate demand video interviews or travel reimbursement for in-person interviews, especially when unemployed?
Is it legal for companies to use unlicensed software and still demand expertise from employees?
How do I deal with bias against career gaps caused by COVID-19 and personal hardship?
Given my health history and past labor cases, what legal remedies are available to prevent discrimination in hiring?
Are there government or legal provisions for support in cases like mine, where both livelihood and mental health are at stake?
I request members to kindly guide me on possible legal action, rights, or alternative remedies available.
Thank you for your time and guidance.
Sincerely,
Kapil
Mechanical Engineer – HVAC
