Daijiworld Media Network - Nashik

Nashik, Apr 9: In a shocking case of workplace misconduct, police in Maharashtra’s Nashik have arrested six team leaders of a leading IT company on charges including sexual harassment, molestation, rape and hurting religious sentiments. The case has prompted the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) as authorities suspect that more victims may come forward during the course of the probe.

Police said nine FIRs have been registered so far, with the accused identified as Asif Ansari, Shafi Sheikh, Shah Rukh Qureshi, Raza Memon and Tausif Attar, all of whom are currently in custody. Investigations have revealed that the alleged incidents took place over a span of two to three years within the company premises.

Most of the complainants are women aged between 18 and 25, who have alleged that they were subjected to inappropriate physical behaviour, objectionable remarks about their appearance and repeated comments targeting their religion, causing significant mental distress. In one of the cases, an accused has been charged with rape, with allegations that he lured the victim into a relationship under false pretences before committing the offence.

In a separate complaint, a male employee has alleged that he was pressured by colleagues in positions of authority to participate in religious practices, including specific rituals and dietary changes.

The victims had earlier approached the company’s HR department under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, but alleged that no action was taken on their complaints. Following this, police have also registered a case against the HR head for alleged inaction.

Given the seriousness and scale of the allegations, police have constituted an SIT to conduct a detailed investigation. Officials said all angles, including possible suppression of complaints and involvement of others, are being examined. Authorities have also urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the probe.