Netflix under investigation in India for visa violations and racial discrimination

The Indian government is currently investigating Netflix under investigation for various business practices, including allegations of visa violations, tax evasion, and racial discrimination. The inquiry, which targets the U.S. streaming giant, was revealed in a July 20 email sent by Deepak Yadav, an official from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) of the Home Ministry in New Delhi, to Nandini Mehta, Netflix’s former director of business and legal affairs in India. This marks a significant development, with Netflix under investigation for these serious

The email, reviewed by Reuters, raises concerns about Netflix's visa compliance and tax practices, along with claims of racial discrimination within its Indian operations. Mehta, who left Netflix in 2020, is currently pursuing a lawsuit in the U.S. against the company for wrongful termination and discrimination.  

In a statement, Mehta supported the investigation, hoping that authorities would release their findings. However, she did not provide further details about the specific allegations. The FRRO and Home Ministry declined to comment on the investigation.  

A Netflix spokesperson said the company was unaware of any ongoing investigation in India.  

With around 10 million users in India, Netflix considers the country a key growth market. The company has faced various challenges in India, including backlash over some of its content. Recently, Netflix was forced to add disclaimers to an Indian series about a hijacking after controversy erupted over the portrayal of hijackers.  

The government’s investigation also seeks documents related to visa compliance and business practices during Mehta’s tenure. In addition to this probe, Netflix has been dealing with tax demands in India since 2023, which it is currently contesting.  

The email marks a broader investigation into Netflix, but the agencies involved were not specified. The FRRO, which works closely with the Intelligence Bureau, is responsible for overseeing visa compliance and foreign business practices.  

Meanwhile, Mehta’s lawsuit in the U.S., filed in 2021, claims wrongful termination, and racial, and gender discrimination. Netflix, in response, denied all the allegations, stating that Mehta was dismissed for improper use of a corporate credit card. Her case is scheduled for a status hearing in Los Angeles.

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