Bad news for Ratan Tata’s TCS, is IT giant in trouble? IT employees’ union flags concerns over…., writes to…

A union representing IT workers has raised an alarm over Tata Consultancy Services’ (TCS) new bench policy and has requested action from the government. The Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES), representing IT and ITeS workers, has urged the Ministry of Labour and Employment to direct TCS to suspend its 35-day bench policy. NITES has also asked for the formation of a tripartite committee to ensure that IT companies comply with fair labour laws and norms related to employee welfare.

What is the New Bench Policy?

TCS just modified its policy limiting employees to 35 business days on the bench during the year – a period when employees can learn new skills or doing internal tasks until a new project comes along.

Which ministry has the union approached for intervention?

In a letter, Harpreet Singh Saluja, president of Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES), stated, “While on the surface it presents itself as a resource optimisation and engagement strategy, a closer and humane reading reveals that it institutionalises a culture of fear, pressure, and psychological burden on employees who are between projects.”

“These are not non-performing employees, but skilled professionals who find themselves temporarily without allocation, often due to shifting business priorities, client project changes, or internal inefficiencies that are beyond their control. Instead of support, they are met with suspicion, coercion, and threats,” Harpreet Singh Saluja, president of NITES, was quoted as saying by BusinessStandard.

The bench policy has been subjected to criticism for creating a working environment marked by excessive control and constant surveillance. Furthermore, the letter claims that it fosters an environment where workers are treated as liabilities rather than assets and are expected to be available at all times without taking personal time off. “Even a short period of unavailability is met with veiled threats, warnings, or HR inquiries,” it said, BusinessStandard reported.

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