The Tata Group is examining a series of sexual harassment allegations levelled against lobbyist and managing partner of Counselage India, Suhel Seth, who happens to be a consultant to the group, and will review its relationship with him in due course.
‘Looking into charges’
A spokesperson for the group said they were looking into the charges of sexual misconduct that have been made against Mr. Seth in the past 10 days. The spokesperson said, “Tata Group is committed to promoting a safe workplace for women. We have noted the recent reports regarding Mr. Seth in the media. We are looking into the issue and will decide on a further course of action in this regard.”
Accusations of sexual misconduct have been pouring in against Mr. Seth, under the aegis of the #MeToo movement since October 10. It began with the account of a filmmaker and creative producer who accused Mr. Seth on Twitter of taking her home by deceit and forcing himself on her. She wrote, “You have abused your power for years on end. With what I’ve seen at a close range, if every woman you’ve ever laid hands on, starts to speak up, I assure you, there will be at least 1,000 women who will say, Suhel Seth? Yes. #MeToo.”
Since then, several media persons have also recounted their experiences of sexual assault involving Mr. Seth. These include journalist Mandakini Gahlot, writer Ira Trivedi, and most recently, model Diandra Soares, who detailed an account of Mr. Seth physically accosting her at an afterparty post Bridal Fashion Week a few years ago.
Mr. Seth allegedly assaulted Ms. Soares in full view of other partygoers at the time, she said in a Facebook post on October 16. Ms. Soares said she was inspired to speak up seeing the sharing of other accounts. Her account concluded by saying, “I’m in hope that speaking up can set an example & a new course to bring about change & a better chance for other younger women & our future for young girls to NOT have to go through this with a predator roaming openly & free amongst us all.”
Urged to take a stand
Several individuals have been tagging the Tata group and its chairman Ratan Tata, urging them to take a stand on these complaints and review their ties with Mr. Seth.