Mass Unemployment in Pune IT Hub After Sudden Firm Closure
In Pune, the abrupt closure of an IT firm has left over 700 employees and interns without jobs or pay. The CEO, Harshal Thakre, has been arrested following complaints of fraud and unpaid salaries. Employees reported being misled about their compensation and were asked to pay for laptops. The situation has raised serious concerns, prompting investigations and legal actions against the company. Many affected individuals are now seeking assistance as they navigate this unexpected crisis. The firm had previously gained credibility through placements at reputable institutions, making the sudden closure even more shocking.
| Jun 4, 2026, 13:34 IST
Pune IT Firm Closes, Leaving Employees Jobless
In a shocking turn of events, over 700 employees and interns at a private IT company in Hinjawadi, Pune, have found themselves unemployed without pay or benefits following the firm's abrupt closure. Based on complaints from the staff, Harshal Thakre, the CEO of Think Tech India OPC Private Limited, located in Noida, has reportedly been arrested. Thakre, who also held the position of head of training and development, is under investigation alongside a human resources manager. The CEO's arrest came after a complaint was filed by a 25-year-old intern, with around 30 others also providing statements against the company. Serious allegations have been leveled against the firm, and a case has been registered against Thakre for fraud and criminal breach of trust.
Employees Claim Unpaid Salaries
15,000 Rupees Taken, No Salaries Paid
Employees have reported that they have not received their salaries or allowances for several months, and were asked to pay 15,000 rupees under the pretext of receiving laptops. Many complainants stated that they had not been paid for one to three months. The Forum of IT Employees (FITE) indicated that numerous workers reached out for assistance. Pawanjeet Mane, the head of FITE, informed that after receiving complaints from several interns, they contacted the Hinjawadi police to file an FIR against the firm's owners. He noted that the company began operations last year and initially paid new employees. However, since January, salaries have ceased. Despite repeated complaints from employees, the owners continued to provide new dates for salary payments but never fulfilled their promises.
Engineering Graduates Misled by Company
How Engineering Students Were 'Deceived'
Reports indicate that the company hired numerous engineering graduates from various locations in Maharashtra, including Yavatmal, Jalgaon, and Nashik. According to a report by a local media outlet, employees discovered the company's doors sealed on April 22. A notice was posted on the glass doors by the building owner, demanding overdue rent and other maintenance fees. The report further stated that Think Tech was listed in placement drives at several prestigious institutions in Maharashtra, lending the company a degree of credibility. An intern mentioned that they believed the company had undergone background checks since it was allowed by reputable colleges for campus placements.