A local man’s attempt to sell a washing machine on Facebook Marketplace has sparked a community backlash after he made racist remarks in response to a potential buyer’s inquiry.
The incident occurred when a Melbourne resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed interest in purchasing the washing machine advertised on the popular social media platform. In a shocking turn, the seller responded, “We charge extra to Indians…because they are mostly scammers” a comment that was quickly screenshot and shared widely across social media, igniting widespread condemnation.
This post not only contained discriminatory language but also highlighted a deeper issue of casual racism that exists within some segments of online buying and selling platforms.
Community members and anti-racism advocates have rallied on social media, demanding accountability and calling for Facebook to take more stringent actions against users who engage in discriminatory practices.
Anti-discrimination organisations have condemned the remarks, emphasising that such behaviour fuels racial stereotypes and discrimination.
“Racism has no place in our community, whether online or offline,” stated a spokesperson from the Melbourne-based Hindu Anti-Discrimination Coalition.
“It is imperative that we stand together to challenge and report racist behaviours whenever they surface.”
The incident has prompted calls for more robust policies on Facebook Marketplace, including better detection of discriminatory language and quicker response times to complaints about such content.
Indian Australian community representatives have responded to the incident, stating,
“There should be zero tolerance for discrimination on social media platforms and we are working continuously to keep our community safe, including improving tools to prevent hate speech and promoting educational resources that encourage respectful interactions.”
The seller involved in the incident has not publicly commented on the matter. Meanwhile, the community continues to support the victim of the racist remark, using the incident as a rallying point to advocate for greater inclusivity and respect in online spaces.
Support Our Journalism
Global Indian Diaspora needs fair, non-hyphenated, and questioning journalism, packed with on-ground reporting. The Australia Today – with exceptional reporters, columnists, and editors – is doing just that. Sustaining this needs support from wonderful readers like you.
Whether you live in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States of America, or India you can take a paid subscription by clicking Patreon Buy an annual ‘The Australia Today Membership’ to support independent journalism and get special benefits.
