Mumbai, India – The All India IT & ITeS Employees’ Union (AIITEU) has raised strong objections to a newly introduced policy by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India’s largest IT services company. The policy, implemented on June 12, 2025, mandates that employees be billable for at least 225 days annually, limiting bench time to just 35 days.
The union has criticized the move as “anti-worker,” alleging that it effectively transfers the burden of securing projects from the company’s Resource Management Group (RMG) to individual employees. Workers fear this shift could lead to salary cuts, hindered career growth, or even job loss for those unable to meet the billability target.
What’s the Controversy?
The AIITEU argues that the policy is a veiled strategy to initiate downsizing in response to current challenges in the IT industry, including global economic uncertainty, reduced client spending, and pressure from international tariffs.
Under the new rule, employees must independently find projects to maintain their billability status. Those on the bench are allowed only a 35-day window to find new assignments—down from the earlier average of 45–60 days—and are required to undergo 4–6 hours of daily upskilling via the company’s iEvolve platform during this period.
“This is a clear attempt to trim the workforce without outright layoffs,” said an AIITEU spokesperson. “The responsibility of project allocation lies with the employer, not the employee.”
Employee Backlash
Social media platforms such as Reddit and X have seen a surge in posts from TCS employees expressing dissatisfaction with the new mandate. Many claim the policy is unfairly punitive, especially given the slowdown in project availability.
One post read, “We’re being punished for a lack of projects that’s beyond our control. How is this fair?”
The union has urged TCS to revoke or amend the policy, calling for a more employee-centric approach that doesn’t jeopardize job security.
Industry Trends
TCS’s move mirrors a broader industry trend aimed at tightening operational efficiency. Bench periods have steadily declined across the IT sector—from 45–60 days in FY20–FY21 to 35–45 days currently—as companies seek to maintain margins amid sluggish growth.
While the policy may serve short-term business goals, critics warn it could adversely affect employee morale and long-term retention.
What’s Next?
TCS has not yet issued an official statement in response to the AIITEU’s protest. However, the union is reportedly considering taking the matter to labor authorities if the company does not engage in dialogue.
Employees and industry observers alike are closely monitoring the situation for potential ripple effects across the sector.
Stay tuned to IT Referral Jobs for the latest developments.
Disclaimer: This news report is based on available information and employee sentiments shared online. TCS has not released an official statement at the time of publication. For the most accurate updates, please refer to TCS directly.