NASHIK, India (Diya TV) — A covert police operation inside a Tata Consultancy Services BPO campus has uncovered an alleged religious conversion racket, prompting a widening investigation with possible international links, officials said. Authorities launched the operation in February after receiving a tip about suspicious activities at the facility in Nashik. Police deployed four undercover women constables as housekeeping staff to gather evidence. Their findings, along with WhatsApp chats and victim statements, have led to multiple arrests and ongoing probes.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has identified at least 12 employees as alleged targets. This number has risen from nine as more individuals shared their accounts. Police have registered nine First Information Reports (FIRs) so far, based on complaints from eight women and one man.
The complainants, mostly between the ages of 18 and 25, said the incidents occurred over two to three years, starting around 2022. They accused colleagues of harassment, coercion, and attempts to force religious conversion. Investigators said three additional individuals have given statements but have not filed formal complaints. They cited social stigma and personal concerns as reasons for their hesitation.
Police have charged the accused with serious offenses. These include sexual harassment, rape under the pretext of marriage, religious manipulation, and hurting religious sentiments.
According to investigators, several accused held positions as team leaders and engineers. Officials have arrested six suspects so far. They continue to search for others linked to the case. One key suspect, identified as HR manager Nida Khan, remains at large. Authorities are examining her role in hiring practices and internal operations within the company.
The undercover constables played a critical role in uncovering the alleged network. They observed interactions among employees and reported suspicious behavior. Their findings helped police map out communication patterns. Investigators said they found WhatsApp groups where the accused allegedly discussed colleagues, identified potential targets, and planned strategies. Forensic teams are now retrieving deleted messages. Officials believe these chats could provide crucial evidence about intent and coordination.
During the investigation, police identified a man named Imran in WhatsApp conversations. Authorities suspect he may have connections to Malaysia. Investigators believe Imran acted as a preacher. He allegedly joined video calls with employees and spoke about opportunities abroad. These included promises of high-paying jobs and improved lifestyles. Police are working to verify his identity and role in the case. They have not confirmed any formal charges against him yet.
Statements from complainants reveal a troubling pattern. Victims alleged that the accused used verbal abuse, inappropriate behavior, and emotional pressure. They said the suspects encouraged them to adopt Islamic practices, including offering namaz and observing roza. Some complainants also reported remarks targeting their religious beliefs. Officials said these testimonies form a key part of the investigation.
Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan commented on the case. He alleged that some employees lured women with promises of jobs and financial benefits. He also claimed they pressured them to change religious practices.
The company responded with a statement emphasizing its strict policies. It said it follows a zero-tolerance approach toward misconduct. Officials confirmed that employees under investigation have been suspended. Authorities believe the case may involve a larger network.
