Nashik: The whereabouts of Nida Khan, an accused in the alleged sexual harassment and religious conversion case linked to a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) BPO unit, remain unclear as police continue their search, even as her family denies that she is absconding.

Investigators say Khan is on the run, with her phone switched off and her last known location untraceable. However, her relatives maintain she is in Mumbai and not evading authorities, deepening the mystery surrounding the case.

Police say she is absconding

According to police officials, multiple teams have been deployed to trace Khan’s movements through technical surveillance and ground operations. Authorities stated that both her phone and those of her close relatives have been switched off, complicating the investigation.

Police also questioned her husband within the jurisdiction of Mumbai police. He reportedly told officers that Khan was staying at a relative’s house, but when officials visited the location, they found it locked.

A formal search operation is underway, with officers examining digital trails and local leads to locate her.

Family denies she is in hiding

Contradicting the police version, Khan’s family has insisted that she is not absconding. Her relatives claim she has been living in Mumbai with her husband since January 2026 and is under stress due to the ongoing allegations.

Her maternal uncle stated that no police officials had contacted the family regarding her whereabouts and emphasised that she is cooperating legally through her counsel.

The family also clarified that Khan worked as a process associate at the company’s BPO unit and did not hold any managerial or HR position.

Pregnancy claim and legal move

Khan has reportedly claimed that she is pregnant while seeking legal protection from arrest. Her lawyer has indicated that an anticipatory bail application will be filed soon.

Investigators are verifying the claim through medical records. Legal experts note that courts typically require strong medical evidence before granting relief based on pregnancy.

TCS clarifies employee role

TCS has issued a statement distancing itself from certain claims circulating in the case. The company clarified that Khan was neither an HR manager nor involved in recruitment.

It stated that she joined as a process associate in December 2021 and held no leadership responsibilities. The company also said that its internal systems, including ethics and POSH channels, had not recorded complaints of the nature currently being alleged.

TCS has launched an internal investigation led by senior leadership, with support from independent agencies.

What is the Nashik case?

The case originated after a woman employee filed a complaint alleging she was misled into a relationship on the promise of marriage. The complaint triggered a wider probe into workplace conduct at the Nashik unit.

Subsequently, more women came forward with similar allegations. Police have registered nine FIRs between 2022 and 2026, naming multiple accused, including Khan.

Investigators are examining claims of harassment, coercion and alleged religious pressure. Authorities suspect possible coordination among some employees and are analysing digital evidence such as chats, emails, CCTV footage and financial records.

SIT probe underway

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to handle the case. Officials are also investigating whether complaints were suppressed or failed to reach senior management within the organisation.

The probe remains ongoing, with statements from victims and witnesses being recorded.

Conclusion

As conflicting claims emerge about Nida Khan’s whereabouts, the investigation has entered a crucial phase. While police continue their search, her family’s assertions add complexity to the case. The outcome of the SIT probe and legal proceedings will be key in establishing the facts and determining accountability.