5-Fold Surge in Sexual Harassment Complaints at TCS: Shocking Revelation in Annual Report

Nashik: According to the audit report of Tata Consultancy Services, a five-fold increase in sexual harassment complaints has been recorded between the financial years 2020-21 and 2024-25. By the financial year 2025, this figure had risen to 125 cases. Recently, incidents of harassment have also surfaced at the Nashik BPO unit, following which the police and the internal inquiry committee have initiated action. TCS sources state that this increase actually reflects improvements in the internal reporting system and the growing confidence of female employees in the ‘POSH’ (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) framework. The ratio of complaints has risen from 0.05% in 2023-24 to 0.06% in 2024-25.

Company’s Clarification on the Reporting System
Sources associated with TCS assert that the rise in the number of complaints is not an indication of workplace insecurity, but rather a result of improved monitoring and awareness. Over the past few years, the company has strengthened its internal mechanisms, making women feel more comfortable in filing formal complaints. According to sources, this trend demonstrates the success of sensitization and training programs, rather than a proportional increase in incidents of misconduct.

The Situation and Reality at the Nashik Unit
Amidst reports suggesting that operations at the Nashik unit have come to a standstill, sources have clarified that the office has neither been sealed nor shut down. Currently, approximately 60 people are working from the office, while other employees have been given the option to work either from home or from the office. Regarding Nida Khan, who has been named in the case, it has been clarified that she is not an HR executive, but a telecaller. The company is adhering to its standard protocols and administrative leave policies pending the completion of the investigation.

Meanwhile, reports have emerged stating that Nida Khan—the executive at TCS BPO Nashik—is pregnant and is currently in Mumbai. Her own lawyer has confirmed this information. According to her lawyer, she is currently residing in Mumbai with her family; she is not absconding but has, in fact, filed an application for anticipatory bail in court. This application is likely to be heard in the Nashik Court. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team of the Nashik Police has reached Bhiwandi in search of Nida Khan.

Security Audit and Internal Investigation
Every year, the company mandatorily resolves such matters through its Internal Complaints Committee, in accordance with the ‘Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.’ The company is currently conducting an inquiry—in line with its standard operating procedures—regarding the allegations leveled against its BPO operations in Nashik and Nagpur. With a view to ensuring employee safety and business continuity, certain changes have been implemented for the time being. The company’s primary focus is now on making its reporting ecosystem even more transparent.