Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 17: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said the state government will seek the intervention of central agencies to investigate allegations of serious misconduct and exploitation at a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) BPO facility in Nashik.
Calling the matter “grave and deeply concerning,” Fadnavis said the probe will be taken to its “root” and assured strict action against all those involved. “We will not spare anyone involved. No one will be shielded. We have asked central agencies to probe the matter thoroughly,” he said, adding that the case appears to involve an organised module.
The controversy relates to allegations that women employees at the Nashik TCS BPO unit were subjected to sexual exploitation and coercion linked to religious practices. Complaints have alleged that certain team leaders targeted economically vulnerable women and pressured them into religious conversion and other activities.
Police sources said nine FIRs have been registered in the case so far, with seven accused arrested, including Danish Sheikh, Tausif Attar, Raza Memon, Shahrukh Qureshi, Shafi Sheikh, Asif Aftab Ansari, and a woman associate.
The prime accused, Nida Khan, is currently absconding and has approached a Nashik court for anticipatory bail. Her family has said she is presently in Mumbai and expecting her first child.
Investigators are also examining possible wider links, including alleged financial connections abroad. Officials said they are probing the role of a Malaysia-based individual in connection with suspected funding channels.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed by Nashik Police to investigate the matter. Authorities have also begun scrutiny of a resort where victims allegedly were taken under coercive circumstances.
TCS has stated that it has suspended the accused employees and is cooperating with the investigation. Fadnavis acknowledged the company’s response, stating that it has taken “strong and timely action.”
The alleged incidents are said to have occurred between 2022 and 2026, with victims alleging prolonged exploitation and systemic lapses in oversight. The matter has also reached the Supreme Court, where a petition has sought stringent action against those responsible.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to expand the probe to determine the full extent of the alleged network and fix accountability.