Ramzan fast tip-off sparks ‘conversion racket’ probe at TCS Nashik

TCS

• Nine FIRs after harassment, religious influence claims at TCS
• Seven held, one on the run; probe finds no organized plot
• TCS probes internally, reiterates zero-tolerance stance

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A complaint by a local political worker about a Hindu woman observing Ramzan fasts at a BPO unit of Tata Consultancy Services in Nashik set off a chain of events that has led to multiple FIRs, arrests and a widening probe into allegations of harassment and religious influence, according to a report by The Indian Express.

The worker approached police in February, alleging that the woman in her early 20s had been influenced at her workplace. When police contacted her family, they said they had stopped her from going to work after noticing changes in her lifestyle. This prompted authorities to investigate the 147-employee BPO unit.

Police officials said they deployed personnel undercover as housekeeping staff to monitor activities. “After two weeks, we felt there was enough evidence to act,” an officer told The Indian Express.

The first FIR, registered on charges of rape, involved an accused, Danish Shaikh, who allegedly entered into a relationship with the woman on the promise of marriage while concealing that he was already married with two children.

Police also invoked charges related to hurting religious sentiments, alleging he influenced her religious practices.

According to ACP (Crime) Sandeep Mitke, who is heading the SIT, further investigation expanded the case. After arresting Shaikh and another accused, Tausif Attar, police examined phone records and identified additional complainants and accused.

“In all, nine FIRs were registered between March 26 and April 3, including cases of molestation and attempts to influence religion,” Mitke said. Several women employees alleged inappropriate touching, obscene remarks, and pressure tactics at the workplace.

Eight accused, six men and two women, have been named so far, with seven arrested and one, Nida Khan, absconding.

Police said most accused held senior roles, while complainants were younger employees earning between Rs 18,000 and Rs 25,000.

Investigators, however, said they have not found evidence of a larger organised conspiracy. “It appears to be driven by individual religious zeal rather than any coordinated effort,” Mitke said.

Lawyers representing the accused have denied the allegations, arguing that normal social interactions and personal choices are being criminalised.

Tata Sons Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran described the allegations as “gravely concerning” and said a detailed probe is underway under TCS COO Aarthi Subramanian, with the company reiterating its zero-tolerance policy and cooperation with authorities.