NCW Fact-Finding Report Reveals Grave Lapses in Safety and POSH Compliance at WNS Global, Pune
Viman Nagar, 21st March 2025: The National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson, Vijaya Rahatkar has sent a fact-finding committee report to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, with copies to the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, Pune Police, and the District Magistrate.
The report pertains to the tragic incident that occurred on January 7, 2025, at WNS Global in Viman Nagar, Pune, where a female employee was brutally attacked and killed by a male coworker in the company’s parking lot. The accused was subdued by bystanders and subsequently handed over to the police, following which an FIR was registered.
In response to the incident, the NCW constituted a Fact-Finding Team (FFT) under Section 10 of the NCW Act, 1990. The team, comprising Meenakshi Negi (Former Member Secretary, NCW), B.K. Sinha (Former DGP, Haryana), and R. Sreelekha (Former DGP, Kerala), conducted an investigation, including site visits and discussions with the senior management and employees at WNS Global.
The investigation revealed significant lapses in grievance redressal and safety protocols at WNS Global. Despite the accused having previously reported a financial dispute with the victim to the HR department, the matter was neither documented nor escalated, resulting in missed warning signals. Additionally, the company’s security protocols, including random bag checks, were found inadequate, raising serious concerns about workplace safety and risk management.
The investigation also exposed deficiencies in the implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 2013. Though a POSH committee existed, the absence of proactive grievance documentation and consistent training on workplace safety and conflict resolution indicated non-compliance with POSH guidelines.
The Fact-Finding Team recommended a comprehensive overhaul of safety measures, including:
Enhanced Security Protocols: Comprehensive surveillance, especially in high-risk zones like parking areas.
Mandatory Safety Audits: Regular assessments to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Employee Awareness Programs: Regular training on workplace safety, conflict resolution, and POSH compliance.
Strengthened Internal Committees: Efficient handling and documentation of disputes, with periodic reporting to senior management.
Third-Party Mental Health Counseling: Professional support for employees to address stress and interpersonal issues.
“The FFT also stressed the need for media sensitization to maintain ethical reporting standards. The NCW recommended institutionalizing “Bharosa Kendras” in all Pune police stations under the District Collector’s leadership to support victims of violence and trauma.
WNS Global has been urged to implement stringent safety measures, conduct periodic security audits, and collaborate with local authorities for crisis management. The NCW also recommends that the Pune Police expedite the investigation and assess any prior threats or incidents of harassment. Additionally, the government should strengthen support mechanisms under the Manodhairya Scheme to provide financial and emotional assistance to victims.
This incident highlights the urgent need for prioritizing workplace safety and effective grievance redressal, particularly in high-pressure environments such as BPOs. Strengthening compliance with POSH and safety standards is crucial to preventing such tragic occurrences in the future”, NCW stated in a press release.
