Nashik: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has raised serious concerns over alleged workplace harassment and safety violations at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Nashik, following a detailed fact-finding investigation into complaints made by women employees.

The commission submitted a report exceeding 50 pages to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on May 8, highlighting what it described as a “deeply disturbing and toxic workplace environment”.

The report reportedly details allegations of sexual harassment, bullying, emotional abuse, misuse of authority and violations of the POSH Act at the company’s Nashik office.

NCW formed special committee after complaints

The NCW had taken suo motu cognisance of complaints filed by multiple women employees at the TCS Nashik office.

NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar constituted a fact-finding committee comprising:

  • Justice Sadhna Jadhav
  • B K Sinha
  • Monika Arora
  • Lilabati

The committee visited Nashik on April 18 and 19, 2026, and interacted with complainants, Internal Committee members under the POSH Act, police officials and witnesses.

Report alleges harassment and abuse of authority

According to the findings, the committee observed an environment allegedly marked by systematic bullying, emotional harassment and abuse of authority.

The report claimed certain accused individuals exercised significant control over the office and allegedly targeted young women employees.

The complainants reportedly described incidents involving sexual harassment, attempted molestation, humiliation and sustained mental pressure within the workplace.

The committee further noted that many employees were reluctant to formally complain due to fear of retaliation, transfer, job loss and damage to their careers.

According to the report, several women employees believed institutional mechanisms within the company were either ineffective or unresponsive.

Allegations of religious bullying also raised

The panel also documented allegations related to religious remarks and workplace intimidation.

According to the report, some employees alleged that Hindu beliefs, traditions and mythology were mocked or insulted by certain individuals in the workplace.

Women employees reportedly claimed they were repeatedly subjected to anti-religious comments and comparisons favouring another religion, creating an uncomfortable and hostile environment.

The report stated that fear of social stigma and professional repercussions prevented several employees from speaking publicly.

POSH Act compliance violations highlighted

The committee flagged multiple alleged violations of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.

Among the major observations:

  • The Internal Committee for Pune and Nashik reportedly functioned jointly, which the panel termed a violation of legal provisions.
  • POSH awareness materials and complaint mechanisms were allegedly not displayed properly at the Nashik office.
  • Internal Committee contact information was reportedly missing.
  • CCTV cameras installed in the office were allegedly non-functional.

The committee criticised the Internal Committee members for what it described as “insensitive” handling of complaints.

The report further stated that the organisation allegedly failed to establish an effective grievance redressal and employee safety mechanism.

NCW recommends stronger safeguards

The NCW panel recommended stricter implementation of Sections 19, 25 and 26 of the POSH Act and called for improved workplace safety systems.

It also advised stronger complainant protection measures, including possible witness protection safeguards under the Witness Protection Act, 2017.

The committee additionally urged authorities to protect complainants from external pressure and media intrusion during the investigation process.

According to the report, police may examine provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 75, 78, 79 and 299, which relate to harassment and outraging religious feelings.

The panel also suggested examining Section 68(a) of the BNS concerning abuse of authority for sexual exploitation.

TCS yet to issue detailed response

As of now, Tata Consultancy Services has not publicly issued a detailed response to the NCW findings.

The case has sparked wider discussions around workplace safety, POSH compliance and corporate accountability within India’s IT sector.

The investigation is expected to continue as authorities review the committee’s recommendations and possible legal action.