India’s largest IT firm, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), is under scrutiny by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) following multiple complaints of biased layoffs. Over two dozen American employees allege that TCS discriminated against workers based on race, age, and national origin, particularly targeting non-South Asians and those aged over 40.
Complaints Point to Preferential Retention of H-1B Visa Workers
The complaints, filed since late 2023, claim that TCS disproportionately retained Indian employees on H-1B visas, while laying off American citizens and non-South Asian workers. This has sparked serious concerns over the misuse of visa programs and the potential erosion of American job opportunities.
TCS Denies Wrongdoing, Emphasizes Equal Opportunity Hiring
TCS has refuted all allegations. A company spokesperson stated that these claims are “meritless and misleading,” emphasizing TCS’s track record as an equal opportunity employer. The company highlighted its adherence to high standards of integrity in all operations across the United States.
Comments by HR Head Sparked Controversy
The controversy intensified after remarks by Milind Lakkad, TCS’s Global HR Head, surfaced, where he reportedly suggested reducing the American workforce share from 70% to 50%. These comments have been cited by complainants as evidence of bias in internal policy.
US Lawmakers & EEOC Take Notice
US Representative Seth Moulton (D-MA) has urged the EEOC to formally investigate TCS, citing patterns of discrimination and possible abuse of work visa systems like H-1B and L-1A. The EEOC, led by Andrea R Lucas, has indicated a stricter approach toward discrimination against American workers.
Similar Allegations in the UK
The issue isn’t confined to the US. In the UK, three ex-TCS employees have filed legal claims alleging age and nationality-based discrimination during layoffs in 2023. TCS has denied those allegations too.
The Bigger Picture
TCS, with over 600,000 global employees, is one of the most prominent names in IT services. This investigation comes amid broader criticism of outsourcing giants and how they navigate global labor laws and immigration policies, especially in key markets like the US and UK.
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