Nida Khan, one of the main accused in the alleged workplace harassment and religious coercion case linked to the Tata Consultancy Services office in Nashik, was arrested on Thursday after remaining absconding for over six weeks, police officials said.
Khan was taken into custody from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar after a 42-day search operation conducted by a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Officials said she will now be brought to Nashik and produced before a local court.
The case is being investigated by an SIT headed by police officer Sandeep Mitke after multiple complaints were filed by women employees earlier this year.
Multiple Allegations Under Investigation
Police are currently probing nine separate complaints connected to the case, including allegations of workplace harassment, molestation, mental harassment, religious pressure and attempted forced religious conversion.
According to investigators, several women employees accused senior staff members of creating a coercive and hostile environment inside the office.
So far, eight people, including a female operations manager, have been arrested in connection with the investigation.
Allegations Of Religious Pressure
According to the FIR registered at Deolali Camp Police Station, Khan allegedly used a WhatsApp group to pressure employees into following certain religious practices.
The complaint alleges that women employees were encouraged to pray in a particular manner, change food habits and follow specific dress practices linked to Islamic customs.
Some complainants also claimed they faced pressure to adopt religious symbols and alter personal lifestyle choices inside the workplace.
Police said the accused have been booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to sexual harassment, intimidation and defamation.
Additional charges under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act were also added after the complainant alleged coercion despite the accused being aware of her caste background.
Bail Plea Was Rejected Earlier
Earlier last month, Khan had approached a Nashik court seeking anticipatory bail and temporary protection from arrest, citing pregnancy-related concerns.
However, the court rejected her anticipatory bail application on May 2, following which police intensified efforts to locate her.
