I am on a fixed-term contract in Ujjain — am I entitled to gratuity on completion of the term?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Fixed-term employees are entitled to gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972 on completion of five years of continuous service in Ujjain. The Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act amendment recognises fixed-term employment with statutory benefits.

Disputes are adjudicated by the Controlling Authority with appeals to the Madhya Pradesh High Court under Section 7. Employment in Madhya Pradesh is also regulated by Madhya Pradesh Rent Control Act 1960 governing the Madhya Pradesh Shops and Establishments Act.

Continuous service includes periods of authorised leave and layoff. The employer cannot deny gratuity by labelling the contract as fixed-term.