My employee started his own business without my consent and he converted my business to his firm. He used all my clients data and relations he built up as my employee for his personal benefit. While he is doing so, he enjoys all benefits like salary allowance. Can I file a criminal case against him? If possible, which section in IPC?
Question from: Kerala
You can sue him for the loss you suffered from the breach of contract and fraud. He has breached the terms of agreement when he used the data of clients. As per the standard agreement between the employer and employee the employee cannot do business with the clients of the employer. If he does so he shall be liable to compensate the employer.
As you said that he has used your clients data for establishing business relations with them. This act constitutes fraud under Section 17 of the Indian Contract Act.
File a civil suit
You should file a civil suit for the damages or compensation for the loss you suffered due to fraud and breach of your ex-employee. He is bound to compensate because he has deceived you by stealing data of clients and doing business with them.
Section 73 of the Indian Contract Act gives you a right to claim damages for the loss. It is an undisputed fact that he was your client. Before joining he had no business with your clients. After quitting the job he has started his own business and dealing with your clients. These facts are sufficient to prove that he has deceived you by stealing data of your clients.
