Nashik: The alleged religious conversion and harassment case linked to a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) office in Nashik has widened significantly, with the prosecution placing before the court a series of fresh claims involving structured religious influence, document handling and possible links extending to Malegaon and Malaysia.
During the hearing of the anticipatory bail plea of the prime accused, Nida Khan, Special Public Prosecutor Ajay Mishra informed the court that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has gathered evidence suggesting that the accused attempted to influence one of the complainants to adopt Islam by systematically introducing her to religious practices.
According to the prosecution, the complainant was allegedly provided with a burqa and was guided through religious customs. Mishra told the court that the accused not only gave her religious books but also installed learning applications related to Islamic teachings on her mobile phone. The prosecution further stated that social media content, including reels and YouTube links, were used as part of the alleged effort to influence her beliefs.
Expanding on the nature of the alleged interaction, the prosecution claimed that Khan would take the complainant to her residence, where she was taught how to offer prayers and how to wear a hijab and burqa properly. Investigators have indicated that this was not an isolated act but part of a more structured approach to religious grooming.
One of the most striking claims made in court was that there was a plan to change the complainant’s name to “Hania.” According to the prosecution, this step was part of a broader attempt to alter her identity as part of the alleged conversion process.
The SIT has also indicated that the scope of the case is no longer limited to Nashik. Prosecutors told the court that links have emerged connecting the case to Malegaon, a town in Maharashtra, as well as to Malaysia, suggesting the possibility of a wider network.
According to the prosecution’s submissions, a co-accused identified as Danish Sheikh allegedly took possession of the complainant’s educational and other important documents. These documents, investigators claim, were intended to be handed over to individuals in Malegaon as part of the broader plan.
Further, the prosecution alleged that there were preparations underway to send the complainant to Malaysia under the pretext of a job opportunity. A person named Imran has been mentioned in connection with this alleged plan. Investigators are currently probing whether financial backing or organised support existed behind these activities.
Mishra also informed the court that Nida Khan is currently absconding and that her mobile phone remains a crucial piece of evidence. He argued that custodial interrogation is necessary to determine whether more individuals may have been targeted in a similar manner. The prosecution expressed concern that granting bail at this stage could enable the accused to influence witnesses or tamper with evidence.
The court has not granted interim protection to the accused so far, and police action remains a possibility. The matter is scheduled to be heard again on May 2, when further arguments on the anticipatory bail plea are expected.
On the other hand, the defence strongly refuted the allegations. Khan’s lawyer, Rahul Kasliwal, argued before the court that there is no law prohibiting religious conversion in Maharashtra. He maintained that the charges invoked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita pertain only to hurting religious sentiments and that no actual conversion had taken place.
Kasliwal also questioned the procedural aspects of the investigation, pointing out that multiple FIRs had been filed in the case. He argued that instead of nine separate FIRs, there should have been a single consolidated complaint, suggesting procedural irregularities.
Meanwhile, sources linked to the investigation have described the case as involving what they term a “structured grooming pattern.” According to these inputs, the accused allegedly followed a systematic approach that included personal interaction, religious instruction, digital influence and promises of opportunities abroad.
Investigators are now examining digital footprints, communication records and financial aspects to establish whether the alleged acts were part of a coordinated effort or isolated actions. The mention of Malaysia has particularly drawn attention, as agencies are attempting to determine whether there were cross-border elements involved.
The developments have added new layers to what initially appeared to be a case of workplace misconduct. With allegations now spanning religious influence, identity change, document control and international movement, the case is being closely monitored for its legal and investigative implications.
Authorities have indicated that the investigation is ongoing and that further evidence may emerge as digital devices are analysed and statements are recorded. The outcome of the anticipatory bail hearing and subsequent findings of the SIT are likely to shape the direction of the case in the coming days.
