Nashik TCS conversion case: NCW reveals harrowing findings

NEW DELHI: A fact-finding committee appointed by the National Commission for Women (NCW) has revealed a harrowing environment of religious conversion attempts and sexual harassment at a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) unit in Nashik. The committee, led by retired Bombay High Court Judge Sadhana Jadhav, was constituted following suo motu cognisance taken by the Commission.

The report highlights that the unit was under the significant influence of three employees: Danish, Tausif, and Raza Memon. According to the findings, the group systematically targeted young female employees, creating an atmosphere of fear where no one dared to speak out. Furthermore, critical security infrastructure, including CCTV cameras, was found to be non-functional during the period of the alleged incidents.

The committee’s findings point toward organised efforts to convert employees to another faith. The accused reportedly insulted the religious beliefs of their colleagues as part of a targeted harassment campaign. To date, eight employees, including the aforementioned trio, have been arrested in connection with these allegations.

Key Suspect Nida Khan Remanded to Judicial Custody

In a related development, Nida Khan, a Process Associate identified as the "mastermind" behind the conversion attempts, has been remanded to judicial custody until May 24. Following her arrest in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar on May 7, the Nashik Road Magistrate's Court ordered her transfer to the Nashik Road Central Jail.

The prosecution alleges that Nida Khan was central to the operation, specifically citing an instance where she attempted to forcibly convert a Dalit employee. Despite being four months pregnant, her plea for anticipatory bail was previously rejected by the Nashik Additional Sessions Court. The police produced her in court after concluding initial interrogations and evidence collection.