According to a report from the *Mail*, an Indian-origin footballer has taken legal action against his former manager for referring to him as a “curry muncher.” The case, heard before an employment tribunal, has resulted in a partial ruling in favor of the player, Amrit Bansal-McNulty.
Bansal-McNulty, who has mixed Indian heritage, accused former manager John Yems of racial harassment. Specifically, he alleged that Yems called him a “curry muncher” and made comments about the absence of “curry pizza” during a sponsor-provided meal, questioning if the player was displeased. The manager, aged 66, defended his remarks as friendly banter between acquaintances.
The tribunal found Yems guilty on three counts of racial harassment, but dismissed all claims against Queens Park Rangers, the club Bansal-McNulty initially sued. The player had claimed that QPR failed to protect him from discrimination while he was on loan at Crawley Town. He is seeking approximately £12 million in damages, citing psychological trauma and a prematurely ended career due to the alleged discrimination.
The tribunal’s ruling stated: “It is determined that Yems’ actions occurred during his employment, and Crawley Town bears vicarious liability. All claims against Queens Park Rangers are dismissed. The claimant seeks around £12 million in compensation, citing psychological injury and career loss. As a separate hearing on damages is pending, it is inappropriate to comment further on the implications of this liability decision at this stage.”