Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India’s largest IT services company, is under scrutiny following allegations of workplace discrimination against American employees.
The claims, primarily raised by former employees in the United States, accuse TCS of targeting non-South Asian workers over the age of 40 for layoffs while sparing younger Indian colleagues, many of whom are on H-1B visas.
TCS has strongly denied these allegations, labeling them as “misleading” and reaffirming its commitment to fair hiring practices.
Allegations on TCS and Investigation
The allegations against TCS were first reported in late 2023 and are currently being reviewed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
The complaints suggest that TCS disproportionately targeted American workers for layoffs during the tech industry slowdown, allegedly favoring Indian employees on work visas.
Critics claim that the company is misusing US visa programs, such as the H-1B and L-1A visas, which are designed to address labor shortages.
In response, TCS has categorically denied any wrongdoing.
A company spokesperson stated, “TCS has a strong track record of being an equal opportunity employer in the US, embracing the highest levels of integrity and values in our operations.”
The EEOC has not publicly confirmed the investigation, citing federal confidentiality laws.
Broader Implications of Allegations on TCS
The controversy has drawn attention to the broader issue of workplace discrimination in the tech industry.
US Representative Seth Moulton from Massachusetts has called on the EEOC to investigate the allegations.
He expressed concerns about a possible pattern of discrimination and misuse of visa programs.
Similar allegations have also surfaced in the UK, where former TCS employees have accused the company of age and nationality-based discrimination during layoffs.
This is not the first time an Indian IT company has faced such scrutiny.
In 2020, Cognizant Technology Solutions was found guilty of workplace discrimination against non-Indian employees in its US operations.
This case has since become a significant reference point for similar investigations.
TCS’s Response and Commitment
TCS has reiterated its commitment to diversity and inclusion, emphasizing that 70% of its US workforce comprises American citizens.
The company has also highlighted its efforts to create a balanced and inclusive work environment.
Comments from TCS’s Head of HR, Milind Lakkad, regarding the hiring of Indian professionals on visas have drawn attention.
These remarks have further raised concerns about the company’s hiring practices.
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