Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday announced that the state government will seek an investigation by central agencies into the alleged religious coercion and workplace harassment case at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Nashik, calling the allegations “grave and deeply concerning.”
The announcement comes amid growing controversy over serious accusations made by employees at the Nashik facility, including claims of religious harassment, intimidation, forced practices, and sexual humiliation.
Fadnavis Says Probe Will Reach the ‘Root’
Addressing the issue, Fadnavis said the government would ensure a thorough investigation and warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty.
He said no person involved in the alleged harassment would be protected and indicated that the matter may involve an organised network, making a deeper probe necessary.
According to the Chief Minister, the state has already asked central agencies to examine the allegations in detail so that the entire operation, if any, can be exposed.
Employees Allege Religious Coercion and Harassment
The case has triggered outrage after employees alleged that male staff were pressured to wear skullcaps, recite the Kalma, and offer namaz as part of ongoing workplace harassment.
One complainant alleged that employees who refused to comply were subjected to intimidation, isolation, and an unfair workload imposed by senior staff.
The allegations, if proven, point to systematic religious pressure and abuse inside a major corporate workplace.
More Serious Allegations Surface
The controversy deepened further after complaints alleged attempts at religious conversion, verbal abuse, coercion to consume non-vegetarian food, and severe personal humiliation.
One employee claimed that while he and his wife were undergoing fertility treatment, he was allegedly humiliated by being told to “send his wife to management,” a statement that has sparked widespread outrage.
The allegations have led to multiple complaints and criminal cases being registered.
Families of Accused Claim Conspiracy
Family members of some of the accused have denied the allegations and claimed that the case is politically motivated.
A relative of one accused alleged that the case was pre-planned and influenced by external groups, while another family member insisted that the accused had been falsely implicated.
These claims have added another layer of controversy to an already explosive case.
Nine FIRs Registered, Eight Arrested
Police have so far registered nine FIRs in connection with the case and arrested eight people, including senior staff members and one woman.
Those arrested are facing allegations linked to religious harassment, workplace intimidation, and coercive conduct.
The police investigation is ongoing, while the state government’s push for a central probe is expected to intensify scrutiny.
Political and Corporate Fallout Likely
With the Maharashtra government now seeking intervention by central agencies, the case is expected to have major political as well as corporate repercussions.
The allegations have raised serious concerns about employee safety, workplace culture, and oversight mechanisms at one of India’s leading IT companies.
