JP Morgan Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Sparks Viral Debate Over #MeToo Narrative

On April 27, 2024, a lawsuit was filed in New York County Supreme Court alleging that Lorna Hajdini, an executive director at JP Morgan, harassed a subordinate. The complainant, identified as “John Doe” and later as banker Chirayu Rana, says Hajdini spiked his drink with date-rape drugs and Viagra, made repeated sexual advances, threatened his promotion, and used racist language, calling him “my little brown boy” and threatening ICE.

The Independent

Key parties include Lorna Hajdini, JP Morgan director who denies wrongdoing; Chirayu Rana, former JP Morgan employee now at Bregal Sagemount seeking damages for lost earnings, emotional distress, punitive damages, and policy changes; JP Morgan, which completed an investigation concluding the claims lack merit; and plaintiff’s attorney Daniel J. Kaiser, who has not responded to inquiries.

The Independent

The case attracted attention for reversing the typical #MeToo pattern of male perpetrators targeting women. Media highlighted Hajdini’s blonde, late-30s appearance and labeled the allegations a “cougar” scenario. Online commentary invoked racial stereotypes, mocking the plaintiff as a “sex-crazed Indian” and sharing “kinky wish-fulfilment” jokes, prompting debate on social-media framing of workplace misconduct.

Unherd

JP Morgan’s spokesperson said the probe found “no merit” to the allegations, noting many employees cooperated while the complainant declined to provide facts. Hajdini’s attorneys reiterated she “categorically denies the allegations” and has never been at the alleged location. The bank disclosed no settlement or disciplinary action.

The Independent

Commentators called the lawsuit an example of “weaponising HR” to seek a payout. Social-media users circulated memes invoking the “Send Bobs” stereotype, emphasizing the plaintiff’s ethnicity. Megyn Kelly suggested Hajdini “needs to work on her flirtation routine,” adding to the spectacle.

The Independent

The complaint was returned for correction and is no longer publicly available, limiting verification. JP Morgan’s probe reports no merit, while the plaintiff alleges drugging and threats. The plaintiff’s refusal to cooperate creates a factual gap, and the shift from “John Doe” to Chirayu Rana adds complexity.

The Independent

• “If you don’t f*** my brains out tonight, I’m going to sabotage your promotion.” — John Doe (plaintiff)

The Independent

• “my little brown boy” — John Doe (plaintiff)

Unherd

• “categorically denies the allegations.” — JP Morgan spokesperson (via attorneys)

The Independent

• “on her flirtation routine.” — Megyn Kelly

The Independent

The case shows how harassment claims raise reputational risk for financial institutions and highlight challenges when internal investigations depend on employee cooperation. Its viral spread may prompt banks to reassess confidentiality protocols and communication strategies in HR disputes.

The Independent

The lawsuit remains pending before New York County Supreme Court, which will decide if the case proceeds to trial and if damages or policy reforms are awarded. JP Morgan says it will monitor the case while maintaining that the allegations lack merit.

The Independent