Indian-American Engineer Files Lawsuit for Unjust Termination over Hindi Conversation during Distressing Call with a Dying Relative




Anil Varshney, a 78-year-old Indian-American engineer, has filed a federal lawsuit against his former employer, Parsons Corporation, a missile defense contractor in Huntsville, Alabama. He alleges that he was wrongfully fired for speaking in Hindi with his dying relative in India over a video call.

According to the lawsuit, Varshney received a video call from his elderly brother-in-law, K.C. Gupta, who was on his deathbed in India and called to say goodbye to Varshney. Knowing the dire situation and that he may never have the opportunity to speak to Gupta again, Varshney stepped into an empty cubicle and accepted the call¹². Before doing so, he made sure there were no classified materials or anything else pertaining to MDA’s (Missile Defence Agency) or Parsons’ work anywhere near him.

The two spoke for approximately two minutes in Hindi when another worker interrupted Varshney and asked whether he was on a video call, which he confirmed. The other worker told Varshney that the call was not allowed and Varshney immediately hung up¹². The call was the last time they spoke before Gupta passed away.

The suit claims that the other worker was intimidated by Varshney speaking in a language he did not understand and falsely and intentionally reported that the Indian-American committed a security violation by revealing confidential information and/or accepting this call during a confidential meeting or with confidential information in the background.

Despite there being no policy prohibiting the call, and without any investigation, the defendants claimed Varshney committed a serious security violation and fired him. Worse, they blackballed him from future MDA work, effectively ending his career and life of service to MDA and the US government.

The lawsuit also names Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin as legal representative for the MDA. It alleges systemic discriminatory actions against Varshney based on his national origin, race, color, age, and disability. It seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as reinstatement of his job.

Varshney’s attorney, Eric Artrip, said that his client was a loyal and dedicated employee who had worked for Parsons for over 20 years and had received excellent performance reviews. He said that Varshney was devastated by the loss of his job and his reputation. He also said that Varshney’s case was not an isolated incident, but rather a pattern of discrimination against minority workers at Parsons.

Parsons Corporation has not yet responded to the lawsuit or commented on the allegations. The company’s website states that it is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all employees. It also claims to have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or any other form of misconduct.

This case raises important questions about the rights and responsibilities of employees and employers in the context of global communication and cultural diversity. It also highlights the need for sensitivity and compassion when dealing with personal and family matters in the workplace.

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