New Delhi: A reputed IT company in Nashik is under investigation after allegations of sexual harassment and attempted religious conversion involving female employees surfaced, with police arresting six staff members and the firm suspending them.
Police have registered at least nine cases related to harassment, misconduct and coercion, while a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the matter. Investigators are also examining whether any organized network or external funding is involved.
Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan said the probe may reveal a wider pattern, alleging victims were forced to offer namaz and eat beef, and that attempts were made to convert them. He added that some senior employees failed to act on complaints and may face action.
According to police, some employees lured women with promises of better career prospects before subjecting them to mental and physical harassment. There are also indications that victims were pressured to convert.
The case came to light after a covert operation by female police personnel posing as job applicants, during which misconduct was observed. Over 40 CCTV clips have been examined as evidence.
Officials said some team leaders were allegedly involved in systematic grooming, manipulating women into relationships and pressuring them towards marriage. A woman HR staff member has also been arrested for allegedly ignoring complaints and was apprehended from Pune. Further investigation is underway. (Agencies)
