Gen Z, Don’t Get Trapped! Here Are Your Rights Before You Say YES to That Placement

Gen Z, you are setting new standards at work by asking for more flexibility, better mental health and balanced personal and professional lives than people before you. But as you start your first job, you should become familiar with your rights as an employee as per labour laws for freshers in India. There are additional steps involved in “placement” other than agreeing to the job offer. There are simple rules all young workers should follow, and we recommend you send this list to every Gen Z friend before they accept a job. 

1. Request an Employment Contract Every Time

Make sure there is a formal, written contract in place before you think of applying because this is what Gen Z employment rights India 2025 says. Your role, how much you will be paid, your work schedule, leave options and additional terms are all to be explained in this document. If the employer is reluctant about giving you one, this should be a concern. Having an agreement in place keeps you from being exploited and creates the boundaries for both partners. 

2. No one can Take Your Degree From You

An unusual situation is developing where some companies now require job applicants to present their original degrees and certificates. This does NOT follow the law. Companies or colleges have no right to keep your original documents so you have to keep working or settle for less. When this happens, please go to the authorities or contact the Labour Commissioner as soon as possible.

3. Know Your Entitlement to Be Paid Fairly and Promptly

The recent changes in labour laws in India give you the right to minimum pay, equal pay for equal work, and prompt salary payments. If your salary is held up or you receive wages under the minimum wage, you have the right to file a complaint. Never agree to wage payments that don’t comply with minimum wage laws just because it’s your first job. Knowing labour laws for freshers is your key to pocket the right job for you.

4. Health, Safety and Respect at Work

Workplace safety, good health, and respect are rights that you have. According to the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (OSHWC) 2020, your workplace will provide clean drinking water, restrooms, and canteens. Anyone working in a dangerous job position should make sure to have the necessary safety equipment and training. You have the right to refuse unsafe work and to get the basic items you need.

5. Watch out for placement scams.

Places like colleges and companies may encourage students by promising they will manage to place every single candidate. The truth? placement frauds in colleges are real! College does not guarantee you will get a job after graduation. Some pretend that unpaid placements are jobs, overstate numbers of offers and even make up fake letters about placements.  However, in 2024, a considerable 40% of young adults with university degrees were still jobless which shows that these figures did not reflect reality. Always confirm the company and the offer and reach out to alumni before trusting the hype.

6. Be careful with Institutions that May be Fake.

The UGC has raised concern about an increase in fake universities that give out invalid degrees. Make sure that the institution or company you plan to enroll in or work for is recognized by the correct authorities before agreeing. Getting a higher education degree or securing government employment with a diploma from an unapproved school is impossible.

7. You Can Leave at Any Time

Observe your own situation carefully; having your documents or an agreement can't be the only sign of a true bond with a company. If you are unsatisfied with your work situation or if you feel mistreated, you can resign. You also have the right to re-skilling support under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, if you lose your job. 

8. Social Security to All

The Social Security Code, 2020, includes both traditional employment and work carried out by gig and platform workers. Based on fresh data from the government, more than a crore gig workers are now registered on e-Shram. People can also benefit from the upcoming government initiatives such as the Provident Fund (PF), gratuity, and healthcare through PM Jan Arogya Yojana. So, working as a freelancer, an intern or via an app will still give you access to social security benefits.

What Should You Do If You’re Trapped in a Toxic Company?

1. Don’t hand in original documents. Always provide photocopies of your documents that you have self-attested.
2. If you are made to work against your consent, get help from the Labour Commissioner or legal aid.
3. Save all the documents related to your application: emails, offer letters and other communication.
4. Network with both former and current workers to get a clearer view.

Gen Z, Push for Progress

Since you’re helping to make the workplace better, don’t let old, unfair systems block your progress. Remember your rights, insist on getting your fair treatment and support your friends in knowing what to do. Spread this information, discuss your views and support employees by creating a respectful work culture.

Forward it to the Gen Z people you are closest to so they stay protected with knowledge of labour laws for freshers. Also, keep checking Edinbox for the newest developments in education and careers.