Nashik: The investigation into the alleged harassment and forced conversion case at a BPO unit linked to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has taken a serious turn, with police accusing senior staff of discouraging victims from filing complaints.
According to Nashik Police Commissioner Sandeep Karnik, the HR manager and operations head allegedly dissuaded a woman employee from proceeding with her complaint, reportedly telling her that “these things happen” while siding with the accused.
Senior staff under scrutiny
Police said the female operations manager and HR head played a role in suppressing complaints. The operations manager has been arrested and remanded to judicial custody till April 28, while HR manager Nida Khan is currently absconding.
Authorities stated that the actions of senior staff raise concerns about internal accountability and workplace grievance mechanisms.
Multiple cases registered
So far, police have registered nine cases based on complaints from employees. Eight individuals — including seven men and one woman — have been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to trace the absconding accused.
The accused men have been identified as Danish Sheikh, Tausif Attar, Raza Memon, Shahrukh Qureshi, Shafi Sheikh, Asif Aftab Ansar, and Shahrukh Sheikh.
Coordinated targeting of employees
Investigators revealed that the accused allegedly acted in a coordinated manner, particularly targeting female employees. A senior police official said the pattern of complaints suggests organised harassment within the workplace.
The cases include allegations of mental and sexual harassment, as well as attempts to influence religious beliefs. A special investigation team had earlier been formed after multiple women employees came forward with complaints.
Wider probe involving agencies
Amid speculation about possible links to extremist organisations or foreign funding, police have sought assistance from agencies such as the State Intelligence Department (SID), Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Commissioner Karnik said that conclusions would be drawn only after concrete evidence is obtained.
Male employee’s complaint adds dimension
Among the nine cases is a complaint filed by a male employee alleging workplace harassment and attempts at religious conversion. This has added a new dimension to the probe, indicating that multiple employees may have been targeted.
TCS responds to allegations
N Chandrasekaran described the allegations as “gravely concerning and distressing.” He said a comprehensive internal investigation is being led by TCS Chief Operating Officer Arathi Subramanian to ascertain the facts and identify those responsible.
Conclusion
The case has raised serious concerns about workplace safety, abuse of authority, and the effectiveness of internal complaint mechanisms in corporate environments. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to examine both individual accountability and systemic failures within the organisation.