NGO head Fazil Qazi arrested for alleged forced religious conversion, molestation and coercion of women; ATS joins probe into NGO activities and funding

The head of a Nagpur-based NGO has been arrested on multiple charges, including alleged religious conversion, molestation and forcing women to wear Islamic attire.

The accused, identified as Fazil Qazi, is alleged to have pressured women associated with the NGO, named Universal Multipurpose Society, to adopt Islamic practices, including wearing specific attire and following certain customs. It is learnt that the complainant is a woman employed at the organisation, who also holds the position of HR head. In her statement, she has accused Qazi of repeatedly forcing her to follow Islam against her will.

Probe Launched Into NGO Funding Source

Further, the police have taken the accused into custody and launched a detailed probe into the NGO’s functioning. Officials were examining the NGO funding sources and financial transactions to determine whether there were any irregularities. Given the gravity of the allegations, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has also joined the investigation.

Investigators were also looking into whether other women may have faced similar pressure or coercion within the organisation. Sources indicate that multiple aspects, including the NGO’s activities and outreach, are under scrutiny.

Nashik TCS Conversion Case

The case comes amid heightened attention to alleged coercive conversion incidents in the state. Recently, a controversy in Nashik involving employees linked to triggered debate after claims surfaced about attempts to influence religious beliefs within a workplace setting. Authorities have initiated inquiries to verify the allegations in Nashik conversion case.

The linked to TCS has sparked nationwide concern, with complaints claiming a coordinated effort targeting young women employees aged 18–25. At least nine FIRs have been filed, including one by a male employee who alleged religious harassment and attempted conversion. Accusations include insulting Hindu deities, coercion to consume non-vegetarian food, and pressure to adopt specific religious practices. Eight individuals have been arrested so far. Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran termed the allegations “deeply disturbing,” while an internal probe led by COO Arathi Subramanian is underway.

Further details in the NGO case are expected as agencies continue to gather evidence and record statements.

Nagpur

Nagpur is a major city in the Indian state of Maharashtra, known for its central location and historical significance as the former capital of the Central Provinces and Berar. It is famously the location where the Hindu nationalist organization RSS was founded in 1925, and it serves as the winter capital of Maharashtra. The city is also a key cultural and commercial hub, renowned for its oranges and the Deekshabhoomi, a sacred Buddhist monument where Dr. B. R. Ambedkar converted to Buddhism in 1956.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a state in western India known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It was the heart of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century and later became a major center of the Indian independence movement. Today, it is home to Mumbai, the country’s financial and entertainment capital, as well as UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Ajanta and Ellora caves.

Nashik

Nashik, located in Maharashtra, India, is an ancient city with deep religious significance, often called the “Wine Capital of India” due to its thriving vineyards. Historically, it is one of the four sites of the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage, and is mentioned in the Ramayana as the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent part of their exile. The city is also home to numerous temples and the sacred Godavari River, which flows through its center.

TCS

TCS typically refers to Tata Consultancy Services, a global IT services and consulting company headquartered in Mumbai, India. Founded in 1968 as a division of the Tata Group, it became one of the world’s largest IT firms, playing a key role in India’s technology boom and digital transformation. Its history reflects the growth of the Indian IT industry from a nascent sector to a global powerhouse.