How The Nashik IT Firm Sexual Harassment Case Snowballed Into Religious Conversion Scandal

Last Updated:April 13, 2026, 13:20 IST

Several complaints allege the victims were pressured into consuming beef, performing 'namaz', and in some cases, drawn into physical relationships under false promises of marriage

What began as a sexual harassment complaint at the Nashik office of tech giant TCS has snowballed into a major investigation, with allegations of pressure to convert religion, consume beef and perform namaz surfacing. The pattern of abuse allegedly spans several years, with investigators now probing whether this was part of a coordinated and organised network.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is currently handling the case, is examining nine FIRs that detail repeated instances of alleged harassment, inappropriate physical contact, stalking, derogatory remarks about religion, and attempts to force women into religious practices. Several complaints also allege that victims were pressured into consuming beef, performing namaz, and in some cases, drawn into physical relationships under false promises of marriage.

As the investigation progresses, the focus has shifted beyond individual acts to the possibility of a structured operation. A key lead in this direction is a WhatsApp group that was allegedly active within the organisation.

According to sources, the group included employees from a specific community and was used not just for casual interaction but allegedly to identify and target women. Victims suspect that discussions within the group may have played a role in selecting targets. There are also indications that a separate, exclusive group was created around the first complainant, who was later sexually exploited.

Sources believe this digital trail could point to a deliberate pattern linking harassment, sexual exploitation, and attempted religious conversion.

The probe has taken an even more serious turn with central agencies stepping in. The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), National Investigation Agency (NIA), and Intelligence Bureau (IB) have sought detailed inputs from the SIT, indicating that the case may have wider implications.

Agencies are now examining whether there was external funding, any links to anti-national elements, or connections to banned organisations. Digital activity, financial transactions, international links, and social networks associated with the accused are all under scrutiny. Teams from central agencies are expected to join the investigation on the ground and coordinate closely with local police.

So far, seven accused have been arrested in the case, while one identified as Nida Khan remains absconding and is being traced. Among those arrested, five accused – Tausif Attar, Raza Memon, Shahrukh Qureshi, Shafi Sheikh, and Asif Ansari – have been sent to judicial custody by the court.

The company’s Operation Manager, Ashwini Chenani, was recently arrested from Pune and has been remanded to police custody till April 13. The SIT, led by ACP Sandeep Mitke, continues to question the accused as new details emerge.

In the middle of the investigation, a crucial revelation has added another dimension to the case. A person who was earlier suspected to be linked to the accused has now been identified as a victim himself. During interrogation, it emerged that he had allegedly been coerced into changing his religion a few years ago.

His statement has provided investigators with key insights into the methods allegedly used, including psychological pressure and gradual behavioural influence.

The seriousness of the allegations has prompted a strong response from the Maharashtra government. State minister Girish Mahajan, who visited Nashik, described the case as extremely serious and shameful.

Referring to the allegations, he said they include harassment of women, pressure for religious conversion, coercion to participate in religious practices, and mental torture. He also pointed to claims that women were lured with job opportunities and then subjected to such treatment. Mahajan made it clear that if the allegations are proven, strict action will be taken against those involved. He added that the Chief Minister has taken the matter very seriously and has directed authorities to ensure a fair and thorough investigation.

He also appealed to women to come forward without fear, assuring that their identities would be protected and that the government would provide full support.

The Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has now issued a statement following these incidents and its investigation saying it follows a strict zero-tolerance policy on harassment or coercion at the workplace and prioritises employee safety.

The company states that it took swift action after learning about the Nashik incident, suspending all employees under investigation pending inquiry. TCS says it is fully cooperating with local law-enforcement agencies, and any further internal action will depend on the outcome of the official investigation.

As the investigation deepens, officials believe the coming days will be crucial in establishing the full extent of the network and the intent behind it.

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