New Delhi : Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of India’s largest and most reputed IT companies, has announced a major layoff plan, revealing its decision to cut approximately 12,000 jobs globally as part of a workforce restructuring initiative. This move has shocked the IT sector and sparked unrest among employees.
TCS stated that the layoffs are part of a broader strategy to align with future technological demands, streamline operations, and adapt to evolving industry requirements. The company aims to reduce its workforce by 2% in the financial year 2026, citing the need to stay competitive in a rapidly changing tech environment.
However, this decision has faced immediate backlash. The Karnataka State IT Employees Union has filed a formal complaint against the company with the Labour Commissioner, alleging that TCS has violated provisions under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947.
According to the union, any company with over 100 employees must seek prior approval from the government before initiating mass layoffs, which TCS allegedly failed to do. The union claims the decision was taken unilaterally without due legal procedure, and demands criminal action against the company officials involved in the decision-making process.
Union representatives met with Additional Labour Commissioner Manjunath, submitting a detailed complaint and urging the Labour Department to intervene immediately and deliver justice to affected employees.
Quoting the Act, the union emphasized the need for mandatory governmental consent for layoffs and warned that such corporate practices, if left unchecked, could set a dangerous precedent in the industry.
In response, the Labour Department has confirmed that it will soon hold a meeting with the TCS management to discuss the rationale behind the decision. While a date for the meeting has not yet been finalized, Karnataka Labour Minister assured that it would be scheduled soon to ensure transparency and accountability.
