A court in Nashik has denied interim relief to Nida Khan, who is currently absconding in connection with a sexual harassment and abuse case linked to Tata Consultancy Services. The court declined to grant her temporary protection from arrest, stating that her request for interim relief could not be accepted at this stage. Her anticipatory bail plea is now scheduled to be heard on April 27, when the court will examine detailed submissions from both the investigating officer and the prosecution before delivering its decision.
Khan had approached the court seeking anticipatory bail along with interim protection, citing her pregnancy as a humanitarian ground for relief. Her counsel argued that she required protection from arrest until the court could fully hear her plea. However, the court did not accept this argument and refused to grant any immediate relief, leaving her vulnerable to arrest as the investigation continues.
In parallel developments, the court has sent two other accused in the case, Raza Memon and Shafi Sheikh, to 14-day judicial custody. Their custody is part of the ongoing probe into serious allegations involving workplace misconduct, harassment, and coercion.
According to the police investigation, Nida Khan is accused of playing a central role in pressuring employees through a WhatsApp group to follow certain religious practices. The FIR alleges that she encouraged or coerced colleagues, particularly women, to adopt specific dress codes, participate in religious activities such as prayers, and alter their dietary habits, including consuming non-vegetarian food. The case includes charges under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to sexual harassment and defamation, along with sections of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The defence has contested the applicability of the SC/ST Act, arguing that there are no allegations involving caste-based abuse. Meanwhile, Khan’s family has strongly denied all accusations, describing the case as fabricated and politically motivated. They claim she is being targeted as part of a larger conspiracy and have stated that she is currently staying with her in-laws in Bhiwandi.
Separately, the company has taken internal action. A suspension letter issued earlier this month confirmed that Khan has been suspended from her role, with her access to company systems revoked and instructions issued to return all company property. She has also been directed not to engage with colleagues or disclose details of the case pending further inquiry.
As the investigation expands and multiple angles are being examined, the upcoming hearing on April 27 is expected to be a crucial stage in determining whether Khan will be granted anticipatory bail or face arrest as the legal process moves forward.
