Rohan Umak
TCS Nashik row: Fresh and chilling details have emerged on Wednesday in the religious conversion cum sexual harassment case, that unfolded at the Nashik branch of the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) over the past few months. According to police sources, they identified a systematic approach wherein the accused targeted employees reeling under financial crunch and had family issues.
Accused possessed info about new recruits
As per sources, the accused, who are now in police custody, were part of the training team and had detailed profiles of new recruits. They used to target the ones facing financial hardships and distress from their family members. Thereafter, during the training sessions, the accused often used to make derogatory remarks about Hindu deities to provoke emotional responses.
HR Manager assisted accused by winning over victims’ trust
An HR manager, identified as Nida Khan used to approach the agitated victims thereafter, presenting herself as empathetic and supportive. Police officials claimed Khan adopted the tactic to win over the trust of the victims before gradually influencing behavioural and lifestyle changes in them.
One female employee influenced to the hilt
The investigating police personnel revealed that in one instance, a woman employee under the scanner of the accused was influenced to such an extent that she began arguing with her family frequently, and removed religious symbols from her home. The cops described the process as a form of gradual radicalisation.
So far, seven people are in police custody, with some of them identified as Asif Ansari, Shafi Shaikh, Shahrukh Qureshi, Raza Memon and Tausif Attar. Police’s probe indicates a coordinated effort involving multiple staff members.
Undercover operation launched by cops helped crack case
Police sources said that the case was unravelled by means of a covert operation. Women constables disguised as housekeeping staff reportedly entered the premises, while some male officers were also deployed undercover. This strategy paved the way for the cops to verify the allegations without suspects having a whiff about them being watched, strengthening the case ultimately.
Cops examining digital communications too
Police officials spearheading the case said they have also discovered a WhatsApp group used by the accused to discuss potential targets, religious topics and internal office dynamics. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is now examining these digital communications alongside accusations of sexual assault, harassment and religious conversion.
NCW constitutes fact-finding panel
Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken cognisance of the incident, and has constituted a fact-finding committee to probe the allegations at the Nashik BPO unit. Led by retired Justice Sadhna Jadhav, the panel is set to conduct its inquiry on April 17, 2026.
The committee will ascertain the circumstances, will evaluate institutional responses, and shall also recommend measures to enhance workplace safety. They are expected to submit a detailed report within ten working days, which is likely to shape future policy interventions in India’s IT sector.
