TCS Faces Backlash Over Alleged 30,000+ Layoffs Amid 'Mental Harassment' Claims

As of September 29, 2025, India's largest IT services firm, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), is facing a backlash over alleged massive layoffs. IT unions and employees estimate the number of job cuts to be over 30,000, significantly higher than the company's stated figure of 12,000.

Employees report an "environment of fear" in TCS offices, with seniors and experienced professionals being suddenly laid off. Many claim they were forced to resign within 30 days of being placed on a so-called "fluidity list," which they allege is arbitrary and not based on performance or skills.

TCS, however, disputes the unions' claims, stating that the vast number of layoffs quoted is "a narrative built to gain recognition." The company maintains that it is "catching up" with organizational changes and the need to be "future-ready and agile."

Despite TCS' denials, current and former employees allege that the layoffs are a result of "mental harassment" and a "mockery of policies," rather than a normal performance-based exit process. They claim that clients are given false reasons for staff removals, such as "employee is unwell" or "childcare issues," when the real reason is internal downsizing.

As the IT industry grapples with the fallout, the situation at TCS remains uncertain, with the company set to address the media on October 9 after declaring its quarterly results.