Workplace harassment: Nasscom restates zero-tolerance after TCS Nashik allegations

Nasscom said India’s technology sector follows a zero-tolerance approach to workplace misconduct. The industry body spoke after allegations of sexual harassment at TCS’s Nashik office. Eight female employees also alleged forced religious conversion. Nasscom said such cases lead to quick disciplinary steps by employers.

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The statement followed remarks by Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran on Monday. Chandrasekaran described the allegations from the TCS Nashik branch as serious. Chandrasekaran also said an internal probe had started. The inquiry was placed under TCS Chief Operating Officer, Arathi Subramanian.

TCS Nashik sexual harassment allegations and Nasscom zero-tolerance stance

Nasscom said the Indian technology industry rests on respect, dignity, and safety. Nasscom added that companies use strict governance rules for conduct. Nasscom said misconduct or harassment is handled with the highest seriousness. Nasscom also said firms take swift and appropriate disciplinary action under set procedures.

Nasscom said "Any such incident is isolated in nature and does not reflect a systemic pattern within the industry\". Nasscom added that employee safety and well-being are non-negotiable. The association said the sector keeps \"zero tolerance for any form of inappropriate behaviour\". Nasscom also said safe and accountable workplaces support trust at all levels.

TCS Nashik sexual harassment allegations under investigation

Chandrasekaran said: \"The complaints and allegations emerging from the Nashik branch of Tata Consultancy Services have been gravely concerning and anguishing.\" Chandrasekaran said: \"This incident is being treated with utmost seriousness.\" Chandrasekaran said action had begun against the accused employees. Chandrasekaran also said TCS was cooperating with ongoing investigations.

Chandrasekaran said a \"thorough investigation is underway under TCS Chief Operating Officer, Arathi Subramanian, to establish the facts and identify individuals responsible for the situation.\" Chandrasekaran said the group has \"a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of coercion or misconduct by its employees.\" Chandrasekaran added that process improvements and corrective steps would be enforced.

TCS Nashik sexual harassment allegations and police SIT probe

Police formed a special investigation team SIT last week to examine the complaints. The eight employees said senior colleagues mentally and sexually harassed them. The employees also alleged the human resources department ignored their complaints. Police later arrested seven people. The arrests included the company’s female HR manager.

With inputs from PTI