Nashik: Police have arrested Ashwini Chainani, Assistant General Manager at Tata Consultancy Services, in connection with an alleged sexual harassment and religious conversion case, while the company’s HR manager Nida Khan continues to remain absconding.
The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation, which has been handed over to a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
Links with main accused under scrutiny
According to investigating officer Gautam Survade, Chainani was in contact with the prime accused Tausif Atar on at least 38 occasions over the past two years.
Police have also found that she maintained regular communication with other accused individuals, including Danish Shaikh and Raza Memon, raising suspicions about her possible involvement in the alleged conspiracy.
Investigators examine suspicious emails
The SIT is currently analysing 78 suspicious emails received by Chainani through official company servers. Investigators believe these emails may contain sensitive information related to complaints filed by victims or details linked to the alleged activities.
Officials said the digital evidence could play a crucial role in establishing the extent of involvement of those accused.
Allegations of suppressing complaints
Public prosecutors informed the court that Chainani allegedly attempted to suppress a sexual harassment complaint filed by one of the victims.
According to the prosecution, she is accused of discouraging the complainant by asking whether the intent was merely to gain publicity. She also allegedly pressured the victim to “let it go” and “drop the matter,” despite holding a senior and responsible position within the organisation.
Investigators argue that such actions may have emboldened the accused and allowed the alleged misconduct to continue unchecked.
Questions over POSH committee role
The defence has pointed out that Chainani became a member of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Committee only in 2026, while the alleged incidents date back to 2023.
This has raised questions regarding how earlier complaints were handled within the organisation and whether due procedures were followed before her tenure on the committee.
Probe continues, more arrests likely
Police officials indicated that the investigation is ongoing and more individuals may be questioned or arrested as evidence is examined.
Efforts are also underway to trace Nida Khan, who is currently absconding, and to establish the full scope of the alleged network.
Conclusion
The case has drawn attention to workplace safety mechanisms and accountability within corporate structures. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to focus on both individual culpability and systemic lapses that may have enabled the alleged offences.