Organised network behind sexual abuse, conversion in TCS Nashik:Targeted financially weak employees; manager accused of silencing complaints

A police investigation into an alleged religious conversion and sexual exploitation case at the TCS office in Nashik, Maharashtra, has revealed the possible involvement of an organised network targeting newly recruited employees. So far, seven accused individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. According to investigators, the accused identified potential “targets” using personal information of new recruits. Employees who were financially vulnerable or dealing with family difficulties were reportedly singled out. Preliminary findings indicate that the arrested HR manager, Ashwini Chenani, had objectionable conversations with Tausif Attar on 38 occasions, Danish Sheikh once, and Raza Memon 22 times. Lack of cooperation in financial probe When the victims lodged complaints against the accused, Chenani allegedly ignored them and instead reprimanded the complainants. On Monday, after completing three days in custody, she was produced before a court. Police stated that she has not been cooperating with the investigation into financial transactions. Authorities sought five days of custody, but the court remanded her for two days. The investigation has also suggested that derogatory remarks about Hindu deities were made during training sessions. When some employees became distressed, the HR manager allegedly approached them, gained their trust, and gradually pressured them to alter their lifestyle. Female employees allegedly targeted between 2022 and 2026 According to the FIR, female employees aged between 18 and 25 were allegedly forced to offer namaz, made to consume non-vegetarian food, and pressured to convert to Islam between 2022 and 2026. The FIR further claims that some accused individuals established physical relationships with women under the pretext of marriage. Allegations of harassment, voyeurism, inappropriate remarks, and obscene gestures have also emerged, both within and outside the workplace. One complaint alleged that an accused attempted physical assault inside the office. Another stated that despite reporting the matter to a senior official, no action was taken, which allegedly emboldened the accused. WhatsApp Group Also Created Investigators have also found that a WhatsApp group was created by the accused, where they allegedly discussed targets as well as religious and workplace-related matters. Police are currently examining this digital evidence. Those arrested so far include Asif Ansari, Shafi Shaikh, Shahrukh Qureshi, Raza Memon, Touseef Attar, and others. Operations manager Ashwin Chenani has also been taken into custody. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the case and has identified more than 12 potential victims. Police are continuing to investigate possible wider links and external connections within the network. Further developments are expected. VHP calls for stricter laws VHP Joint General Secretary Surendra Jain said in a statement on Wednesday, “The Nashik incident is part of a larger network that appears to be active in many areas. I appeal to the central and state governments to take decisive action, keeping in mind national security, the safety of citizens, and social harmony. Strict anti-conversion laws are needed in all states as well as at the national level.” ​