India’s largest IT services firm Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has initiated a multi-layered response to the ongoing controversy at its Nashik unit, following allegations of sexual harassment and attempted religious conversion involving employees.
Independent probe gains traction
In an official statement, CEO and MD K. Krithivasan confirmed that the company has roped in external experts to ensure a credible and unbiased investigation. Consulting firm Deloitte and law firm Trilegal have been appointed as independent counsel to support the internal probe.
The investigation is being led internally by President & COO Aarthi Subramanian, signalling top-level oversight on the matter.
Oversight committee constituted
To further strengthen governance, TCS has set up an oversight committee chaired by Keki Mistry. The committee will review the findings of the internal investigation and guide the implementation of any corrective measures.
Company clarifies key claims
TCS has also sought to counter what it termed as misinformation circulating in the media. The company clarified that Nida Khan, frequently described in reports as an HR manager, was in fact a process associate with no recruitment or leadership responsibilities.
It dismissed reports of its Nashik unit being shut down, stating that operations continue uninterrupted and client services remain unaffected.
A preliminary internal review, according to the company, has not uncovered any prior complaints of a similar nature in its systems and records.
Case background
The issue surfaced in March 2026, when a woman employee at the Nashik BPO unit filed a complaint alleging that a colleague had maintained a physical relationship with her under the pretext of marriage.
Subsequently, police investigations expanded the scope of the case, leading to the registration of eight additional FIRs. These include allegations of mental and sexual harassment between 2022 and 2026, claims of managerial inaction, and accusations by some complainants regarding attempted religious conversion.
High-stakes reputational test
With multiple FIRs and serious allegations in play, the episode marks a significant reputational challenge for TCS. The company’s decision to bring in external auditors and legal experts, along with establishing an independent oversight mechanism, underscores an effort to reinforce transparency and accountability as the investigation unfolds.