- SIT probes multiple complaints ; Nida's Lawyer Says No Mention of Forced Conversion in FIR
Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
A major controversy has emerged from a BPO office linked to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Nashik. In this case, 26-year-old Nida Khan has been identified as a key accused, allegations of sexual harassment and attempts to pressure employees into religious conversion.
According to police, Nida Khan is among eight accused individuals and is being described as the alleged “mastermind,” particularly regarding her role in handling workplace complaints. Investigating agencies claim she was associated with the Human Resources (HR) department and was part of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), which deals with sexual harassment cases.
The investigation has now widened, with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case. Police have seized call records, emails, and chat messages among the accused to determine whether there was any conspiracy to suppress complaints.
Whereas, Nida Khan's Advocate Baba Saiyyed, representing the accused Nida Khan, has stated that the FIR does not mention any instance of forced religious conversion.
He argued that despite the absence of such allegations in the FIR, Nida Khan is being portrayed as the “mastermind” of the case. According to the defence, her involvement has only been cited in a single complaint report (CR), raising questions over the claims being made against her.
The development adds a new dimension to the ongoing investigation, as legal arguments intensify over the nature and extent of the accusations.
Nida's family claimed she is pregnant and cooperating with investigation
Her family has rejected all charges, claiming she did not hold a senior HR position. According to them, she worked as a tele-caller in the BPO since December 2021 and had no authority to influence complaint procedures. Earlier reports suggested that Nida Khan was absconding, but her family has denied this, stating she is at home and cooperating with the investigation. They also said she is pregnant and under mental stress due to the allegations.
Find out what the case was about
The case came to light after a 23-year-old female employee filed a First Information Report (FIR) in Nashik. In her complaint, she accused a colleague of sexually exploiting her under the pretext of marriage, despite already being married. The complainant also alleged that some colleagues pressured her to change her religious beliefs and convert. Additionally, accusations have been made that certain individuals passed objectionable remarks about a Hindu deity.
Along with Nida Khan, names such as Danish Sheikh and Tausif Attar have also surfaced in the investigation. Police stated that a total of nine complaints have been registered across different police stations, with multiple victims coming forward. Some accused individuals have been arrested. Nida is accused of discouraging victims from filing formal complaints and of failing to escalate serious matters to higher authorities.
Financial transactions between the accused being examined
Authorities are also examining possible financial transactions between the accused. CCTV footage from the workplace has been reviewed, and statements from victims and accused are being recorded. The incidents are believed to have occurred between 2022 and 2026.
TCS confirmed internal inquiry has been initiated
TCS has responded to the matter, calling the allegations serious. The company confirmed that an internal inquiry has been initiated and assured full cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
At present, several contradictions exist between the claims made by police and complainants and the defense presented by Nida Khan’s family. The final outcome will depend on the findings of the SIT and the judicial process.