Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has directed all 150 employees of its Nashik unit to 'Work From Home' (WFH) amid ongoing allegations of sexual harassment and forced religious conversion. Following this directive, no office operations will take place from the office building premises, while the company stated that this decision was taken keeping in mind the convenience and safety of the employees.
Police Seek NIA and ATS Involvement in Probe
The Nashik Police have intensified their investigation into the alleged cases of sexual harassment and forced conversion at the TCS office. To ensure a comprehensive investigation, the Nashik Police have written to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), and state intelligence units. Police Commissioner Sandeep Karnik stated that investigators are looking into concerns raised on social media regarding potential extremist links or foreign funding behind the alleged misconduct. However, he clarified that while all aspects are being probed, no evidence has been found so far to support such claims, and these agencies were contacted solely to ensure a thorough investigation.
Details of 9 FIRs and Key Highlights
Based on complaints filed by employees, the police have registered nine FIRs.
Arrests and Absconding Accused
According to the police, six employees and one Assistant General Manager (AGM) have been arrested in connection with the case so far. Another female accused remains at large. The police noted that several of the accused held supervisory roles and allegedly misused their positions to target their junior colleagues.
Investigation into HR Department's Role
The role of the Human Resources (HR) department is also under scrutiny, while the accused include female employees, among whom is a senior HR official. It's alleged that she discouraged a complainant from pursuing her grievance. The police stated that there are allegations of suppressing the complaint internally and failing to escalate it to the appropriate levels.