Lorna Hajdini defamation lawsuit explained : JPMorgan Chase executive Lorna Hajdini has filed a defamation lawsuit against former banker Chirayu Rana, accusing him of fabricating allegations that she abused him as her “sex slave” in a case that has drawn intense attention across Wall Street and social media.
Why JPMorgan Exec Lorna Hajdini Sues Ex-Banker Chirayu Rana
The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in New York state Supreme Court, marks Hajdini’s direct response to allegations Rana made last month under the pseudonym “John Doe,” as per a report. In that earlier complaint, Rana accused the JPMorgan executive director of drugging him, subjecting him to nonconsensual sexual acts, and using racist language toward him.
JPMorgan Executive Denies Allegations, Calls Chirayu Rana’s Claims ‘False and Fabricated’
According to Hajdini’s filing, she “categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of unlawful conduct,” as quoted by New York Post. The suit describes Rana’s accusations as “entirely false, malicious, and fabricated, and were concocted for the improper purpose of personal enrichment at the expense of defendants and others," as quoted in the report.
Hajdini’s attorneys argued that Rana carried out a “months-long campaign” to spread what they described as false claims in the workplace, to third parties, and in the media. The filing also accuses Rana of attempting to “destroy her reputation for leverage to extort millions of dollars” from her and the bank.
Claims About Previous Allegations Against Chirayu Rana Surface
The countersuit further alleges that Rana made similar accusations involving sexual misconduct against a supervisor at a previous employer, though the report notes those claims have not been independently verified, as per New York Post.
JPMorgan Backs Lorna Hajdini After Former Banker Chirayu Rana’s Controversial Claims
A spokesperson for JPMorgan Chase said the company fully supports Hajdini and does not believe the allegations against her or the firm have merit.
The controversy first erupted when Rana filed his lawsuit against Hajdini, setting off one of Wall Street’s most talked-about scandals in recent months. Company insiders reportedly claimed Rana initially sought a payout “north of $20 million” before leaving the bank and later rejected a settlement offer of $1 million before pursuing legal action.
JPMorgan Investigation Found No Evidence Against Lorna Hajdini
JPMorgan’s internal investigation reportedly found no evidence supporting Rana’s claims. The bank said multiple employees cooperated with the investigation, while Rana allegedly declined to participate or provide evidence.
Some of Rana’s allegations also faced scrutiny internally. He claimed Hajdini threatened to reduce his bonus unless he agreed to sexual acts. However, internal HR documents reviewed by the publication reportedly showed Hajdini had no authority over his compensation or promotion because the two employees reported to different managing directors.
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Report Revisits Bereavement Leave Controversy Involving Chirayu Rana
The report also revisited another controversy involving Rana, alleging he falsely told the bank that his father had died in order to obtain bereavement leave. According to New York Post, reporters later found his father alive at the family home in Fairfax, Virginia.
Chirayu Rana’s Career History Across Major Financial Firms
Rana’s career in finance included roles at firms such as Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse, Houlihan Lokey, The Carlyle Group, and Bregal Sagemount before joining JPMorgan in 2024. He later departed Bregal Sagemount in April.
Who Is JPMorgan Executive Lorna Hajdini
Meanwhile, Hajdini has continued working through the legal battle. A 15-year JPMorgan veteran and graduate of New York University Stern School of Business, she also volunteers with a nonprofit that helps low-income students pursue college opportunities.
FAQs
Why did Lorna Hajdini sue Chirayu Rana?She filed a defamation lawsuit accusing Rana of making false and damaging allegations against her.
What allegations did Chirayu Rana make?
Rana accused Hajdini of sexual abuse, drugging him, and using racist language.
