In the wake of a recent incident at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Nashik, the Labour Department has stepped up vigilance regarding women’s safety across IT hubs such as Hinjawadi, Talawade, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and industrial zones in MIDC areas. Authorities have decided to conduct thorough inspections to ensure that Internal Complaints Committees in companies are functioning effectively. These committees, meant to address workplace grievances of women, will be closely reviewed, and strict action will be taken against organisations found negligent. Officials have taken this move seriously following growing concerns raised over the safety and well-being of women employees in recent months.
Over the past few months, several complaints have emerged from women working in IT and industrial firms, highlighting serious workplace issues. These include allegations of sexual harassment, inappropriate remarks and behaviour, mental harassment by senior officials, excessive workload, discrimination in promotions and salaries, lack of adequate security during night shifts, and insufficient transport facilities. Women have also reported fear of retaliation after filing complaints, including forced transfers or job loss. In some cases, violations of privacy, harassment through inappropriate messages or emails, and pressure to attend late-night office parties or gatherings have also been reported, adding to concerns about unsafe work environments.
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Due to fear of losing their jobs, many women choose to remain silent and avoid filing formal complaints against misconduct. Against this backdrop, the office of the Additional Labour Commissioner has decided to undertake a serious review of these Internal Complaints Committees. The authorities will examine the nature of complaints received, the procedures followed in registering them, and the actions taken thereafter. Companies found guilty of failing to comply with regulations will face strict penalties. As per the law, every company with at least ten employees must have such a committee, but investigations reveal that in many firms, especially in Hinjawadi, Talawade IT Park, and MIDC areas, these exist only on paper.
“Women’s complaints across various companies are regularly monitored by the Labour Department. However, after the Nashik incident, these issues will now be examined with greater seriousness. If any company owner or management is found guilty, strict action will be taken as per the rules,” said Nikhil Walke, Deputy Commissioner, Labour Department. Meanwhile, Padmaja Pawar, Vice President of the Forum for IT Employees in Hinjawadi, pointed out that many members of these committees tend to favour company management, resulting in a lack of justice for women. She suggested including representatives from NGOs, local police, and the Women’s Commission to ensure fairness.