The United States is not an easy place to do a profitable business. They are clever dogs and will not allow you to do your business easily unless they make profits. This time Indian IT Giants Wipro, Infosys, and HCl are under the wire.
All three have faced fresh lawsuits on employee discrimination in the US last month at a time when these firms are seeing an increased hostility for visas in their largest export market.
Indian companies have been increasingly facing restrictions in getting the coveted H-1B visas due to the Donald Trump administration’s decision to favour US technology companies for work permits. This has made Indian tech services companies increase hiring local workers in the US.
In December, Wipro received a lawsuit over allegations of racial discrimination by an African-American employee named Kevin Clark. He has alleged that he was not given projects and eventually terminated based on his race. He sought damages for emotional pain and distress and demanded a compensation of $25 million and other costs.
In the same month, Infosys, India’s second-largest software services exporter, also received a lawsuit from Cathy Szczepinski in Ohio for alleged violation of fair labour standards and denial of overtime payment. Whereas, HCL Technologies received a lawsuit over allegations of discrimination by an employee named Sierra Claytor based in North Carolina.
Responding to allegations, Wipro spokesperson said, “Wipro is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and the employment policy adheres to the highest standards of integrity, fairness and ethical corporate practices. The company does not comment on pending litigation.”
However, Infosys and HCL Technologies have refused to say anything on this until press time. Well, let’s see how things will roll out in the future.
What are your views about discrimination at workplace based on race, caste, or religion? Or if you have any such experiences, please share with us.
Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com
