Former Lyca Radio presenter loses race discrimination claim
Former Lyca Radio presenter Soma Sarkar has lost her race discrimination claim, which alleged that she was removed from her role due to her Indian accent.
During a tribunal held earlier this summer, Sarkar claimed she was a victim of race discrimination after being removed from her weekday evening show in 2021 as part of a new strategy implemented by the station’s CEO. In January 2021, Raj Baddhan, CEO of Lyca Radio Network, introduced several programming changes aimed at revitalising the station, including its flagship Lyca Radio. Sarkar was informed that she would be put “on hold” until the station’s restructuring was finalised. Despite Lyca Radio’s diverse programming, which includes British English, Hindi, and Urdu shows, Sarkar argued that her accent influenced the decision to axe her show.
In March 2021, Sarkar later denied that her removal was due to racism, instead alleging nepotism, claiming that the CEO was related to her replacement (initially Gilly, followed by Radiowalli).
Baddhan had shifted Lyca Radio’s programming to project a more dynamic and high-profile brand, leading to a review of several shows. To settle the dispute, Lyca Radio initially offered Sarkar £5,000, later increasing the offer to £10,000. Employment Judge Stephen Shore ruled against Sarkar, describing her continued pursuit of the case as unreasonable, especially after the station’s settlement offer.
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Judge Shore noted, “The value of Ms. Sarkar’s claim was nowhere near the amount set out in her Schedule of Loss. £5,000 and £10,000 were both reasonable offers. In all the circumstances, we found that Ms. Sarkar’s conduct was unreasonable in continuing her claims after the station’s email of 29 April 2024.”
The tribunal ultimately ruled it had no jurisdiction over her race discrimination complaint, as Sarkar was classified as a freelancer rather than an employee. Sarkar’s claims of unfair dismissal, lack of notice pay and holiday pay, as well as direct and indirect race discrimination, were all dismissed.
Lyca Radio, an award-winning brand, is the largest Asian radio network with four brands under its umbrella, including Lyca Radio and Lyca Gold Radio in Greater London, Lyca Radio – Greater Manchester, and Lyca Radio – Leicester. The network also operates Time 107.5FM in Romford.
