Rideshare Driver Files Federal Lawsuit Against Queensland Police Over Alleged Racial Discrimination
A rideshare driver has initiated legal proceedings against Queensland police in the federal court, citing alleged racial discrimination during an investigation that spanned over a year. The driver, who identifies as Singh and has requested anonymity due to the distress caused by the case, claims he faced racial vilification and procedural misconduct from officers.
Incident and Investigation Details
The controversy stems from an incident on January 26, 2023, in Lawnton, north of Brisbane. Police responded to a resident's report alleging that Singh, an Indian national, was masturbating in his car. According to Singh's statement of claim, the resident reportedly shouted racially charged insults, including "You fuckin' Indian dog! You shit on my country! He's a paedophile. Get him the fuck off our street."
Upon arrival, Singh presented evidence to officers, including details of a completed Uber trip nearby and a call log showing he had been on the phone with his sister in India for 59 minutes prior. He explained that his animated conversation involved hand gestures, which may have been misinterpreted. Despite this, Singh was charged with committing an indecent act, a charge that was later withdrawn in early 2024.
Allegations of Racial Vilification and Procedural Failures
Singh alleges that during the investigation, his requests for a translator and a lawyer were ignored by police, violating his rights. He claims to have only a basic understanding of English, making the denial of an interpreter particularly detrimental. Furthermore, as officers left the scene, a body-worn camera captured one officer making derogatory remarks about Indians, describing them as "a bunch of fucking perverts" in a conversation about a separate incident.
In the federal court case, Singh asserts that these comments amount to racial vilification and that police were negligent and guilty of misfeasance in public office. He is seeking $493,488 in compensation, along with aggravated and exemplary damages, citing the emotional and financial toll of the prosecution.
Legal and Judicial Responses
Queensland police have denied the allegations in their defence filing, claiming the recording was accidental and that actions were not motivated by Singh's race, colour, or national origin. They also refuted claims that Singh was denied access to legal representation or communication with his sister.
Magistrate Annette Hennessy, who presided over the criminal case, described the officer's remarks as "racist" after the charges were withdrawn. The prosecution initially offered an adult caution in August 2023, but Singh's lawyers refused, leading to the eventual dismissal of charges when witnesses declined to attend court.
Impact on Singh and Broader Implications
Singh's lawyer, Stewart O'Connell, stated that the experience has been "soul-destroying" for his client, who came to Australia expecting fairness and tolerance but instead faced discrimination. Singh has reportedly been forced to abandon his studies due to legal costs, risking deportation, and has suffered social isolation even after the charges were dropped.
In a statement, Singh expressed that his dreams in Australia have "vanished before my eyes," highlighting the cultural stigma of the allegations and the lasting negative perception. He remains determined to pursue the matter legally to seek justice.
Police Statement and Ongoing Proceedings
A Queensland police spokesperson declined to comment on the specific case due to privacy and legal reasons but emphasized the service's commitment to professional policing and community safety. They noted that concerns can be raised through internal complaints systems and ethical training programs.
The federal court case continues as Singh seeks accountability for the alleged discrimination, with potential implications for police practices and racial equality in Queensland.
