Dirty Politics Feat TCS

Back in October, when Sir Ratan Tata passed away, many of us felt that the Tata Group might never be the same again. But who would’ve thought they’d change colours this quickly? 🤡

Let’s talk about one of their flagship companies — Tata Consultancy Services, a.k.a. TCS.

For many, TCS has been a blessing. Whether it was offering jobs when unemployment was high, or acting as a launchpad for countless careers — including mine — I’ll always be grateful for TCS being my first company.

But today, it doesn’t feel like the same TCS we once knew.

Yes, TCS has always paid less than many other tech firms, but the trade-off was clear: job security. That’s what kept people loyal. But now? That very foundation is shaking. TCS seems to be slowly slipping into the murky waters of corporate politics.

Let’s break it down:

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1. Salary Hikes Delayed (Indefinitely?)

Recently, without any clear reason, TCS postponed salary hikes — no hikes until at least October. The silence around why has left many confused and demotivated.

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2. Cab Facility Removed — The Silent Pay Cut

TCS quietly removed the one-way cab facility that was a lifeline for many.

Sure, for those at the managerial level with hefty paychecks, it’s just a minor inconvenience. But for entry-level and mid-level employees, it’s a direct hit to our already stretched pockets.

Let’s say someone earns ₹30,000 and lives 50 km away from the office: • Metro fare: ₹60/day • Rickshaw fare (both sides): ₹40/day • Monthly travel cost (22 working days): ₹2,200+

Now consider the quarterly bonus of ₹6,000 — which will be impacted if we skip office. Are we really saving anything?

In fact, we’re losing both ways.

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3. Bench Pressure — Forced Resignations

Another silent but cruel move — employees on the bench are being pushed to resign, regardless of their willingness to work. Many want to contribute but aren’t getting assigned to projects, and instead of support, they’re handed resignation suggestions.

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4. The Illusion of the October Hike

Even if we optimistically believe the October hike will happen — let’s ask ourselves: what’s the real benefit?

For most employees, the increment is usually around ₹500 to ₹1000 per month. Now match that with: • Increased commute costs after cab removal • Day-to-day living expenses • And of course, rising inflation — from groceries to rent, everything has gone up

In this economy, ₹500 doesn’t even cover two full tanks of petrol or one basic grocery run. So while it’s nice on paper to say “hike is coming”, in reality, it’s just a drop in the ocean compared to what we’re bleeding every month.

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Final Thoughts

This isn’t about just perks being cut or policies changing — it’s about how those changes are being implemented, silently and without empathy.

TCS was once known for its stability, integrity, and employee-first culture. Sadly, that image is now fading. What’s emerging instead is a version of the company that plays dirty politics, prioritizing cost-cutting over compassion.

Yes, the world changes. But some values should never be compromised.

Let’s hope TCS remembers what made it great in the first place — before it becomes just another name in the list of fallen giants.