Kolkata, April 17 (IANS) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said the ongoing investigation into the Nashik Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) case has suggested that the allegations of sexual harassment and religious coercion are “extremely serious” and were being carried out under a “module”.

Speaking to the media, the Chief Minister, who has arrived in Kolkata for election campaigning, confirmed that preliminary investigations suggested the activities were not isolated incidents but were carried out under a systematic “module”. He praised the proactive stance taken by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), noting that the company has been instrumental in aiding the investigation rather than shielding the accused.

He further added that the investigations are currently underway, and the Central agencies have been informed; if required, their help will be sought. The case involves multiple FIRs filed by female employees alleging sexual harassment, stalking, and mental torture spanning from 2022 to March 2026.

CM Fadnavis emphasised that the state government is taking the matter with the utmost gravity. “This matter is very serious, and we are taking very strict action on it. It has come to our attention that this was done under a module. Fortunately, a company like TCS has played a very significant role in the probe. They will not shield anyone,” he stated. He further added that the leadership at TCS has “strongly condemned” the actions of the accused employees and is cooperating fully with law enforcement to ensure justice.

The Chief Minister noted that the company’s refusal to protect the perpetrators sets a necessary precedent for corporate accountability in the state.

According to the CM, the Nashik police continued to review CCTV footage and digital communications to identify if more individuals were involved in the alleged module. Local authorities have also increased security and oversight at major IT hubs to ensure workplace safety across the region.

Investigations have revealed a pattern of religious coercion, including allegations that employees were pressured to consume specific foods and participate in religious practices against their beliefs.

Nashik police have already arrested several individuals, including senior staff and an HR official, accused of ignoring internal complaints. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the “organised” nature of these crimes.

–IANS

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