NASHIK: Industry body NASSCOM reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on inappropriate behavior on Tuesday, amid sexual harassment allegations at the Nashik office of Tata Consultancy Services, stating that any instance of misconduct is dealt with swiftly and is not reflective of a broader systemic issue across the sector. The statement comes after eight female employees at the company’s Nashik office accused senior colleagues of sexual harassment and alleged forced religious conversion, sparking widespread concern and scrutiny. On Monday, Natarajan Chandrasekaran described the allegations as “gravely concerning and distressing” and announced a formal investigation led by a senior executive, according to news agency PTI. In its statement, NASSCOM said the Indian technology industry is built on a foundation of respect, dignity, and safety, and operates under strict governance frameworks and established standards for workplace conduct.“Any instance of misconduct or harassment is treated with the highest degree of seriousness, with organizations taking swift, decisive, and appropriate disciplinary action in line with established processes. Any such incident is isolated in nature and does not reflect a systemic pattern within the industry,” it added. The industry body emphasized that employee safety and well-being remain non-negotiable priorities, with companies maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to inappropriate behavior.“Companies across the sector have stricter preventive and redressal mechanisms, backed by clearly defined codes of conduct and full compliance with statutory legal frameworks to ensure that concerns are addressed promptly, fairly, and with due sensitivity,” the IT association said. It further noted that ensuring safe, respectful, and accountable workplaces is essential to maintaining trust at all levels. Chandrasekaran said, “The complaints and allegations emerging from the Nashik branch of Tata Consultancy Services have been gravely concerning and distressing.” He confirmed that a detailed investigation is underway under the supervision of TCS Chief Operating Officer Arathi Subramanian to establish the facts and identify those responsible.“This incident is being treated with utmost seriousness. Action has already been initiated against the accused employees, and the company is extending its full cooperation to the ongoing investigations,” Chandrasekaran, who was leading TCS as its chief executive and managing director before his appointment as the group chairman, said. He reiterated that the group follows a “zero-tolerance policy” towards any form of coercion or misconduct, adding that strict action will be taken against those found guilty. He also said that necessary corrective measures and process improvements will be implemented and enforced. Meanwhile, police have constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the complaints filed by the employees, who alleged mental and sexual harassment by senior colleagues and inaction by the human resources department. Seven people, including a female HR manager, have been arrested in connection with the case.