Nashik: The controversy surrounding alleged harassment at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Nashik branch has intensified, with a male employee accusing colleagues of forcing him to perform religious practices and subjecting him to sustained mental harassment.
The allegations come amid an ongoing investigation into multiple complaints, including those filed by women employees alleging sexual harassment and coercion.
Employee alleges forced religious practices
Speaking about his experience, the employee claimed that his team leaders allegedly forced him to wear a skullcap, offer namaz, and recite the kalma against his will. He said the harassment began in 2022 shortly after he joined the organisation.
The accused, identified as Tausif Akhtar and Danish Sheikh, were reportedly in positions of authority and allegedly used their influence to pressure him into complying with their demands. He further alleged that he was deliberately overburdened with work to keep him physically and mentally exhausted.
Personal remarks and threats alleged
The employee also made serious allegations regarding offensive remarks about his personal life. He claimed that one of the accused mocked his inability to have children and made inappropriate suggestions involving his wife.
According to his account, the situation escalated into threats and physical intimidation when he resisted. He alleged that during a confrontation, one of the accused threw an object at him and threatened him.
Religion cited as point of conflict
The complainant, who described himself as a devout Hindu, said his religious identity became a focal point of harassment. He alleged that colleagues frequently mocked Hindu beliefs, questioned religious practices, and made derogatory remarks about deities and cultural figures.
He also claimed that he was pressured to abandon his religious practices, including being asked to remove his rudraksha mala, and was repeatedly urged to convert.
Incident linked to wider case
The accused named in his complaint were also mentioned in earlier FIRs filed by women employees. In those cases, allegations included sexual harassment, inappropriate behaviour, and attempts to influence religious beliefs.
Police have registered multiple cases in connection with the matter and have already arrested several individuals, including both men and women. Investigations have been expanded following multiple complaints from employees at the Nashik branch.
Investigation underway
Authorities have not yet publicly commented on the latest allegations but have confirmed that the probe is ongoing. Law enforcement agencies are examining all complaints to determine the extent of wrongdoing and whether there was any organised pattern behind the incidents.
TCS has not issued a detailed public statement on the specific claims but is expected to cooperate with the investigation.
Conclusion
The emergence of additional allegations has further deepened concerns around workplace safety and conduct at the Nashik facility. As the investigation progresses, the case is likely to draw attention to issues of harassment, workplace ethics, and the need for robust grievance redressal mechanisms in corporate environments.