Nashik: The IT sector has always been considered a symbol of a professional environment, modern thinking, and a safe work culture. However, a case of forced religious conversion, mental pressure, and alleged sexual harassment at the country’s renowned company, TCS Nashik, has shocked people. New revelations in the TCS Nashik case are raising questions about the entire corporate sector.
What is the new allegation?
A 23-year-old woman, whose complaint forms a key part of the TCS Nashik sexual harassment and religious conversion case, told investigating agencies that she was repeatedly shown videos of Pakistani cleric Tariq Jamil and controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik.
Furthermore, she was allegedly told not to listen to songs about God and not to go to temples.
This case has now expanded beyond just harassment in the workplace, but also to allegations of attempts to change one’s thinking through personal beliefs and mental pressure.
What did the victim say?
The statement of a 23-year-old female employee has given the investigation a new twist. The victim alleges that the accused, Danish Sheikh, exploited her under the pretext of marriage and gradually tried to distance her from Hindu religious traditions. The charge sheet claims that the accused even knew the woman’s bank account and UPI PIN.
Several more names have now been added to the case, and a total of nine FIRs have been filed. The SIT investigation has revealed that some employees were allegedly pressured to adopt religious practices. TCS has suspended the accused in this case and stated that the company operates on a “zero tolerance policy against any form of coercion or misconduct.”
The charge sheet also makes serious allegations against the accused, Nida Khan. According to the charge sheet, she allegedly attempted to exert religious influence on employees through a WhatsApp group. It is alleged that employees were advised to pray, eat non-vegetarian food, and dress according to Islamic traditions.
What did the police say?
Police said that statements from 106 witnesses have been recorded so far in the case. These include the victim, her mother, company employees, members of the POSH committee, and the investigating officer. All the accused are currently in judicial custody.
What did TCS say on the matter?
After the incident came to light, TCS suspended the accused. The company’s CEO, K. Krithivasan, issued a statement saying, “TCS places the highest priority on the safety, respect, and well-being of its employees. We have a zero-tolerance policy against any form of coercion or misconduct.”
He also stated that the company is fully cooperating with the investigating agencies to ensure a fair investigation of the matter. TCS clarified that it is the company’s responsibility to provide a safe and respectful workplace for all employees.
