NCW Fact-Finding Committee Deepens Probe into TCS Nashik Allegations
A fact-finding committee established by the National Commission for Women (NCW) continued its sensitive investigation for a second day on Sunday into the alleged religious conversion and sexual harassment case connected to the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) office in Nashik. The panel met with victims and their families as part of its ongoing inquiry.
Panel Members Emphasize Sensitivity of the Matter
Advocate Monika Arora, a member of the four-member committee, stated that the "matter is sensitive" and "revealing in nature." Speaking to ANI, Arora explained, "We have met with the victims and will meet today as well. Will talk to other stakeholders. After these meetings, we will submit a report on it."
The committee comprises:
- A retired judge
- A retired IPS officer
- An advocate
- An NCW coordinator
Arora emphasized that the process requires necessary time due to the case's delicate nature. "The matter is very sensitive and we would submit the report after talking to all the stakeholders," she added.
Background and Police Action
The Fact-Finding Committee began its inquiry on Saturday into the alleged religious conversion case linked to the TCS Nashik office. This visit occurs amid protests by Bajrang Dal members outside the district collector's office, demanding action over the allegations.
Police have registered a total of nine cases in connection with the incident:
- One case at Deolali camp police station
- Eight cases at Mumbai Naka
On April 17, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) took custody of two accused in the alleged forced conversion case. The ATS is currently interrogating these individuals regarding their involvement in the TCS-linked incident.
TCS Internal Investigation and Response
TCS CEO and MD K. Krithivasan has announced that the company has engaged independent experts to assist with its internal investigation. Deloitte and law firm Trilegal are providing support to the inquiry led by Aarthi Subramanian, President and COO of TCS.
Additionally, TCS has constituted a committee chaired by Independent Director Keki Mistry to oversee the investigation process. The company confirmed that its Nashik unit continues normal operations and client service.
TCS stated that while detailed reviews are ongoing, a preliminary examination of systems and records at the Nashik unit indicates that no complaints related to the allegations were received through either its ethics channels or POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) mechanisms.
Arora summarized the committee's approach: "We have come for an inquiry into the episode of TCS. And we are going to talk to all the stakeholders. It's not possible for us to say anything right now because we will meet all the stakeholders and talk to them, and whatever truth comes out, based on that, we are going to make a recommendation and a report."
