The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged sexual harassment and religious conversion case linked to the Nashik BPO unit associated with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has widened its investigation, with officials now examining claims that key accused Nida Khan repeatedly visited the victim’s residence, conducted religious rituals, shared Islamic teachings and attempted to influence the victim’s beliefs and lifestyle over an extended period, as reported in MoneyControl.
According to sources cited by CNN-News18 and investigators associated with the probe, officials alleged that Khan visited the victim’s home multiple times and carried out prayers and ceremonies linked to her faith, Islam. The investigators reportedly suspect these activities were not isolated interactions but part of sustained efforts to influence the complainant through repeated religious messaging and behavioural conditioning.
Investigators alleged that Khan encouraged the complainant to adopt religious attire including the burqa, hijab and other traditional clothing associated with Islamic practices. Sources claimed she allegedly demonstrated how such attire should be worn properly and encouraged gradual changes in the complainant’s personal behaviour and appearance over time.
Officials are also examining approximately 171 WhatsApp videos and digital links allegedly sent to the complainant. According to SIT sources, many of these materials reportedly contained religious teachings and ideological content allegedly intended to influence the victim’s beliefs over a prolonged period. Investigators are now attempting to determine whether the alleged actions were limited to a personal relationship or formed part of a broader and organised effort targeting employees in a corporate environment.
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The probe has additionally expanded into digital evidence, financial records and possible external connections. SIT officials reportedly said investigators are analysing chats, communications and media files recovered from electronic devices linked to Khan. Authorities are also attempting to identify whether other employees were approached in a similar manner and whether additional meetings or counselling sessions took place.
The latest developments come after Khan was arrested in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on the night of May 7 after allegedly remaining absconding for more than 40 days. Her anticipatory bail plea had earlier been rejected by the court. Following her arrest, a Nashik court remanded her to police custody until May 11. The court also reportedly permitted Khan, who is said to be in the early stages of pregnancy, to meet her mother twice daily during custody proceedings.
Investigators stated that another mobile phone allegedly recovered from Khan at the time of arrest has now been sent for forensic examination. SIT sources reportedly suspect the device may contain conversations, digital records and material allegedly linked to religious conversion activities, including communications with other Hindu employees. Earlier, police had already recovered another phone belonging to Khan from Nashik.
Sources further claimed investigators suspect Khan may have attempted to flee with the second phone because it allegedly contained sensitive information relevant to the probe. Authorities are now examining whether there were coordinated efforts involving multiple individuals or groups.
The SIT has also intensified scrutiny of Khan’s financial records. Sources quoted by media reports stated that investigators have seized her bank passbooks and are auditing account activity after earlier informing the court that they suspected she may have received financial assistance from certain groups. Officials are reportedly probing possible international connections as well, including alleged links to Malaysia and an individual identified as Imran, based on submissions made before the court during earlier hearings.
Investigators are additionally questioning Khan and her family members to determine who may have helped her while she was allegedly absconding. Sources alleged that local corporator Matin Majid Patel is being examined over claims that he may have arranged financial assistance for Khan’s household expenses through intermediaries during the period she was in hiding. Patel has also reportedly been accused of sheltering Khan at a property in the Naregaon area. Authorities have allegedly issued a three-day notice concerning suspected illegal construction linked to the premises.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra minister Sanjay Shirsat has demanded an SIT inquiry into the alleged involvement of leaders from the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) in helping Khan evade arrest. However, AIMIM leader Imtiaz Jaleel rejected the allegations and accused the government of conducting what he described as a “trial by media.”
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