Full Breakdown
JPMorgan Executive Lorna Hajdini Files Defamation Countersuit Against Former Banker Chirayu Rana
5/20/2026, 11:07:47 PM
Defamation Countersuit Filed by JPMorgan Executive
On May 19 2026, Lorna Hajdini, an executive director in JPMorgan Chase’s leveraged-finance division, lodged a defamation lawsuit in the New York State Supreme Court against former junior banker Chirayu Rana. The complaint asserts that Rana engineered a months-long smear campaign, falsely portraying Hajdini as a “sex slave,” a racist, and a sexual predator to damage her reputation and extract monetary compensation.
Background & Context
Rana’s original filing, submitted under the pseudonym “John Doe” on April 28 2026, alleged that Hajdini drugged him with Rohypnol and Viagra, forced non-consensual sexual acts, used racial slurs, and threatened to withhold his bonus. JPMorgan’s internal investigation examined emails, phone records, and witness statements, concluding it found zero evidence supporting the allegations. The probe noted Rana’s refusal to cooperate and that Hajdini and Rana reported to different managing directors, indicating no direct supervisory relationship.
Key Figures
- Lorna Hajdini – 37-year-old executive director, 15-year JPMorgan veteran, NYU Stern graduate, volunteer with a nonprofit that assists low-income students.
- Chirayu Rana – 35-year-old former JPMorgan junior banker, previously employed at Bregal Sagemount (left April 2 2026) and with prior stints at Houlihan Lokey, Credit Suisse, Morgan Stanley, and the Carlyle Group.
- Daniel J. Kaiser – Attorney representing Rana.
- Elizabeth Lampert – Public-relations adviser quoted on corporate risk.
Timeline
- Fall 2024–May 2025 – Rana allegedly fabricated bereavement leave by claiming his father’s death.
- April 28 2026 – Rana files “John Doe” lawsuit alleging sexual and racial misconduct by Hajdini.
- Early May 2026 – JPMorgan offers Rana a $1 million settlement; Rana declines, reportedly seeking “north of $20 million.”
- May 19 2026 – Hajdini files defamation countersuit in New York State Supreme Court.
- May 20 – June 2026 – Media reports and internal documents released; Rana’s lawyer contacted for comment.
Data & Settlement Offers
JPMorgan’s settlement proposal was reported at $1 million, described as a “nuisance fee” intended to avoid protracted litigation. Insiders say Rana’s demand exceeded $20 million. No monetary award has been rendered as of the filing date.
Official Statements & Responses
JPMorgan issued a statement affirming full support for Hajdini and asserting that the bank “doesn’t believe the allegations against her or the firm have merit.” Rana’s counsel, Daniel Kaiser, was approached for comment but has not provided a public response. JPMorgan also noted that its internal investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing.
Criticism & Opposition
Rana maintains that his allegations are genuine, citing an alleged remark by Hajdini: “I bet your little Asian, fish head, wife doesn’t have these cannons.” He argues the $1 million offer was insufficient and that his pursuit of a larger payout reflects the seriousness of his claims. Public-relations adviser Elizabeth Lampert warned that even unproven allegations can pose reputational risk for a major institution like JPMorgan.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the extent of Rana’s prior misconduct. The New York Post alleges he made “eerily similar fabricated allegations” at a previous employer, but verification of those claims remains unavailable. Reports that Rana used an AI chatbot for legal advice on rape have not been independently corroborated.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Ms Hajdini categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of unlawful conduct.” — Lorna Hajdini, countersuit filing
- “These allegations are entirely false, malicious, and fabricated, and were concocted for the improper purpose of personal enrichment at the expense of defendants and others.” — Lorna Hajdini, countersuit filing
- “We fully support Lorna and her right to defend herself and protect her reputation. As we have said from the outset, we don’t believe the allegations against her or the firm have merit.” — JPMorgan spokesperson
- “I bet your little Asian, fish head, wife doesn’t have these cannons.” — Alleged statement attributed to Hajdini, cited by Rana
- “For a major player like JPMorgan Chase, even unproven allegations can create risk,” — Elizabeth Lampert, public-relations adviser
- “was a good guy.” — Family patriarch describing Chirayu Rana
What’s Next
The defamation case proceeds in New York State Supreme Court, with both parties expected to exchange further pleadings. JPMorgan has indicated it will not make additional settlement offers. Rana’s lawyer may file a formal response, and the court will set a schedule for discovery and potential trial. The outcome could shape how large financial institutions address internal misconduct allegations and settlement negotiations.
