India’s largest IT services company, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), is once again in the spotlight amid reports of mass layoffs. What was first announced as a “2% workforce restructuring” has now snowballed into claims of forced resignations, harassment by HR, and an environment of fear. Many employees say they are hiding their job losses from their families, revealing unseen human suffering behind the corporate numbers.
Employees Speak Out On Forced Resignations
Several employees have alleged that they were not given a choice but to resign. One such worker, Rohan (name changed), shared that he faced five months of “harassment” by HR and the Resource Management Group before being terminated. Despite serving the company for 13 years, he felt “betrayed” and left without financial security. His story highlights the emotional toll layoffs are taking on loyal employees.
Rohan revealed that TCS asked him to pay a recovery fee of up to ₹8 lakhs for the time he spent on the bench. Part of the amount was deducted from his dues, while the rest was settled by the company. He says the pressure and repeated enquiries pushed him to a breaking point, making survival extremely difficult.
Allegations Of Harassment And ‘Fluidity List’
The Moneycontrol report further claims that employees placed on a so-called “fluidity list” are given just 30 days before HR forces a decision — either resign voluntarily or face termination. This practice has reportedly spread panic across TCS offices. For many, the anxiety of waiting for the HR call is as damaging as the termination itself.
Some allege they were threatened with accusations of “moonlighting” to justify removal. One employee said his access was revoked suddenly, followed by endless questioning from HR. Such actions have raised concerns among IT unions, who argue that TCS is violating ethical layoff practices.
Ongoing Layoffs Impacting Even New Tech Teams
Employees say the layoffs are not limited to underutilized teams — even those working on new technologies and live projects are being asked to leave. A staff member revealed that entire teams with more than 8–10 years of experience are being let go with just days’ notice. “There’s fear, confusion, and chaos everywhere,” he said.
Clients reportedly cutting budgets have also reduced manpower needs, leading to sudden exits. Many ongoing projects are being scaled down, leaving employees scrambling for new assignments within or outside the company.
Why Is TCS Laying Off Employees?
TCS officially stated in July that the layoffs are part of its strategy to build a “future-ready organisation” by investing in AI, automation, and new-age technologies. The company said it is focusing on reskilling while also “releasing associates” whose deployment may not be feasible.
According to the company, the move will impact around 12,000 employees globally, mostly in mid and senior levels. However, the manner of execution — sudden terminations and forced resignations — has sparked backlash, with IT unions like FITE and UNITE demanding transparency and support for impacted staff.