Big Northwest Car Dealership Sued for Racism, Discrimination Against Indians

Toyota of Kirkland is one of the biggest car dealers in the entire King and Snohomish County areas, if not the state. Now it is facing a lawsuit from a former employee claiming racism. He's got former co-workers and customers lining up to support him.

Ruhul Kayshel has filed a suit against the dealership and its parent owner, O'Brien Auto group, claiming numerous derogatory remarks were made either directly to him, or within earshot -- including ones made about Indian customers as well.

According to Northwest Cable News:

When Kayshel complained to the general manager, Kayshel claims the dealership fired him in a text message the next day. It said 'You have been fired. We don't want you here anymore,' said Kayshel."

Two former salesmen, who are white, said management often referred to Asian Indian customers as "stinky," while another said management did not put forth effort into selling cars to these people or others of Asian descent -- including Chinese, Koreans, and Japanese. He implied management felt they weren't worth the effort.

Besides the five former workers, two Indian customers have said racist comments were directed at them after they complained about finding discrepancies in their auto purchase paperwork. One of them, Ravinder Bangar, said he was called a "cheap Indian bastard" after his complaint about the papers. Another customer said he was told: "F*** off Indians, get out from here."

Toyota of Kirkland's attorney refused to comment, and said they will respond in court findings.