Nashik Police Serve Notice to IT Firm HR Officer in Sexual Exploitation Case
In a significant development, the Nashik city police have served a formal notice to the human resources (HR) officer of an IT company based in Nashik. This action follows her identification as a suspect in one of eight complaints filed by women employees alleging sexual exploitation and the hurting of religious sentiments at the workplace.
Police Action and Investigation Details
Nashik police commissioner Sandeep Karnik confirmed the issuance of the notice, stating, "A notice has been served to the HR officer to explain her role in the complaint in which she has been named as a suspect." According to a senior police officer, a team was dispatched to Pune to locate the HR officer, who had allegedly failed to take action despite being alerted about the harassment. The notice was served during this operation.
The case involves eight First Information Reports (FIRs) lodged by female employees of an IT firm that employs approximately 300 people in Nashik. The complainants accused certain colleagues of sexual exploitation and offending their religious beliefs. Additionally, a ninth case was registered by a male employee for similar charges related to religious sentiments.
Based on these complaints, the police have already arrested six employees. In response to the severity of the allegations, a Special Investigating Team (SIT) has been established under the leadership of Assistant Commissioner of Police Sandeep Mitke, as directed by the police commissioner.
Allegations Against the HR Officer
One of the women complainants had previously sent an email to the HR officer, reporting alleged harassment by team leaders. Instead of addressing the issue, the HR officer reportedly advised the complainant to "stay cool, as some gestures were common in MNC work culture." This alleged inaction has now placed the HR officer under police scrutiny as part of the broader investigation.
Chief Minister's Response
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has publicly praised the police for their swift action. While interacting with reporters in Ashti, Beed, on Thursday, he stated, "The way sexual exploitation was carried out and religious sentiments were hurt at an IT firm using pressure is shocking. I would like to congratulate the police for acting swiftly and exposing the matter." His comments underscore the gravity of the case and the government's support for the ongoing investigation.
