Nagpur: In a case raising serious concerns over workplace safety and alleged coercion, police in Nagpur have arrested an NGO operator accused of sexual harassment and pressuring employees to adopt specific religious practices within his organisation.
The accused, identified as Riyaz Fazil Qazi, runs organisations including Fikar Foundation and Padhe Hum Padhaye Hum. He was taken into custody following complaints filed by employees, with police launching a multi-angle investigation into the functioning of the संस्था, also referred to as Universal Multipurpose Society.
Chief minister assures strict action
Reacting to the case, Devendra Fadnavis said the government is closely monitoring developments and assured strict action against those found guilty.
“A full investigation is underway, and strict action will be taken against the accused,” he stated, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations.
Allegations of coercion and workplace pressure
According to police, the accused allegedly used the NGO as a front to exert pressure on women employees to follow certain religious practices, including adherence to dress codes and participation in rituals.
Officials said the allegations point to an environment where employees were reportedly coerced into complying with practices despite belonging to different faiths. The case has prompted scrutiny of workplace norms and the need for safeguards against coercion in professional spaces.
Sexual harassment complaint
The primary complaint was filed by a 23-year-old woman who had been working as an administration and HR head at the organisation since September 2023.
As per the FIR, the complainant alleged that on July 18, 2024, during her birthday at the office, the accused called her to his cabin, hugged her without consent, and kissed her forehead. She stated that she did not resist due to fear of losing her job.
The complaint further details repeated instances of alleged harassment, including attempts to hug her on multiple occasions and inappropriate physical contact when she was alone. In one instance, the accused is said to have switched off a CCTV camera before attempting to embrace her.
Additional allegations surface
The complainant also accused the accused of monitoring female employees by creating a fake social media account using parts of his name and hers. Police are verifying these claims through digital evidence.
Another allegation involves a phone call made to a former employee’s mother on April 13, during which the accused allegedly used abusive language and made defamatory remarks about the complainant and her family. An audio clip of a similar conversation was reportedly circulated among staff days later.
When the complainant and others visited the NGO office on April 18, they found it locked and subsequently approached police, leading to the registration of the case.
Multiple victims and resignations
Investigators said at least three women have come forward with complaints so far, and more statements are expected. The complainant also alleged that her sister, who briefly worked with the organisation, faced pressure to follow specific religious practices during field visits and resigned within two months.
Police indicated that several employees had left the NGO in recent months, with some citing discomfort over the alleged environment.
Wider investigation underway
Given the seriousness of the allegations, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad has joined the investigation. Authorities are examining CCTV footage, call records, financial transactions, and social media activity linked to the organisation.
Senior inspector Haresh Kalsekar said the accused has been remanded to police custody until April 23 for further interrogation.
Conclusion
The case has brought renewed attention to issues of workplace safety, harassment, and alleged coercion within organisations. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to examine all aspects of the NGO’s operations and ensure accountability if the allegations are substantiated.