Two months after her arrest, Nida Khan, an accused in a case linked to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), was granted bail by a Nashik court on Monday. The court's decision came after a prolonged legal process, with the prosecution alleging that Khan and her associate, Shaikh, attempted to convert a co-worker to Islam.
Prosecution's Allegations
The prosecution submitted that Shaikh gave an Islamic book and a burqa to the victim, a female co-worker, with the motive of religious conversion. The case, registered under sections of the Maharashtra Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act, has drawn attention due to its corporate workplace setting.
Bail Conditions
The Nashik court granted bail to Nida Khan on a bond of Rs 15,000 with one surety. The court also imposed conditions, including that Khan must not tamper with evidence or influence witnesses. She is required to appear before the investigating officer as and when summoned.
Background of the Case
Khan was arrested in May 2026 along with Shaikh, who remains in custody. The victim, an employee at TCS's Nashik facility, had complained to the police about alleged coercive conversion attempts. The case has sparked debates about religious freedom and workplace conduct, with TCS stating it is cooperating with the authorities.
Legal Representation
Khan's lawyer argued that the allegations were baseless and that his client had been falsely implicated. He stated that the bail application was opposed by the prosecution, which cited the seriousness of the charges. The court, however, found no merit in the prosecution's argument that Khan was a flight risk or could tamper with evidence.
Next Steps
With bail granted, Khan is expected to be released from Nashik jail later this week. The trial is set to proceed, with the next hearing scheduled for August 2026. The case continues to be monitored by legal experts and human rights groups.
