TCS-linked Nashik BPO: NCW finds toxic workplace with pervasive harassment, recommends POSH compliance

In a three-page statement, the NCW outlined salient features: the accused allegedly controlled the Nashik BPO and engaged in sexual harassment and coercive anti-religious messaging; nine staffers accused eight senior colleagues; there were attempts of molestation. The panel noted zero POSH compliance, non-functional CCTV cameras, no IC member visits to the Nashik office, missing boards with IC member names, and lack of informational literature on POSH consequences. It recommended strict compliance with POSH Act Sections 19, 25, and 26; proactive IC action; improved HR mechanisms and redressal; and protection for complainants and witnesses under the Witness Protection Act 2017. The statement also cited that a TCS spokesperson was unavailable for comment, while company sources denied NCW’s non-compliance claims. It highlighted the need for precautions so lodging complaints does not threaten a employee’s job and urged the police to consider Witness Protection mechanisms.

NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar presented the report to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The four-member NCW fact-finding panel submitted its over 50-page report to NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar.

The two-day field visit to the Nashik BPO concluded as the panel completed interviews and gathered evidence.

The NCW four-member panel spent two days at the Nashik BPO, speaking with complainants, members of the internal committee under POSH, Nashik city police, and other key witnesses.

K. Krithivasan, CEO and MD of TCS, issued a statement noting that while detailed reviews were underway, a preliminary review indicated no complaints of the alleged nature had been received via ethics or POSH channels.

The National Commission for Women formed a four-member fact-finding panel to investigate allegations of sexual exploitation and religious coercion at the TCS-linked Nashik BPO.