Infosys denies co-founder involvement in the whistleblower complaint

Information technology services firm Infosys has strongly denied the involvement or support of any of its co-founders or former colleagues to the whistleblower group.

The ‘mischievous insinuations’ made by anonymous sources against the cofounders and former colleagues of the company, suggesting their involvement in the recent whistleblower allegations were appalling, the Bengaluru-based company said in a statement to the stock exchanges. 

“These speculations are appalling and seem to be aimed at tarnishing the image of some of the most accomplished and respected individuals. I have deep regard for the life-long contribution of all our cofounders. They have built this institution and have served this company selflessly and even today, remain committed to the long-term success of Infosys,” said Infosys chairman and co-founder Nandan Nilekani.

Earlier today, a business news portal said that a co-founder and a senior former executive also supported the whistleblower group.

Infosys said that an audit committee has appointed an external law firm to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations made in the complaints. 

"We will share the outcome of the investigation at the relevant time with all stakeholders," the statement added.

On Monday, Infosys said in a statement to the National Stock Exchange (NSE) that there was no prima facie evidence to corroborate recent allegations by a whistleblower. 

The statement was not released as part of any conclusion of any inquiries by the company. It was only a clarification given by the company to the stock exchange when asked for its response on why the company did not disclose the whistleblower allegations to the exchanges or regulators.

Media outlets had recently reported that a whistleblower group that called itself ‘ethical employees’, had complained against Infosys, alleging that it was taking unethical steps to boost its short term revenue and profit numbers.