‘Infrastructure doesn’t equal inclusion’: Oswal sisters on Switzerland’s systemic bias and ‘curry muncher’ taunts

‘Infrastructure Doesn’t Equal Inclusion’: Oswal Sisters Highlight Switzerland’s Systemic Bias

Infrastructure doesn t equal inclusion – Infrastructure doesn’t equal inclusion, as the Oswal sisters argue in their recent critique of Switzerland’s treatment of Indian expats. While the country is often celebrated for its wealth, stability, and advanced systems, the sisters reveal a different reality—deep-seated prejudice that persists despite the nation’s reputation. Their story, centered around a ₹1,649 crore property in Switzerland, underscores how systemic bias manifests in everyday interactions, challenging the notion that economic prosperity alone ensures social acceptance.

The Swiss Experience: A Test of Inclusion

For Ridi and Vasundhara Oswal, the recent incident of a man hurling racist remarks outside their home was more than a momentary outburst—it was a culmination of years of feeling out of place in their adopted nation. The sisters, who have lived in Switzerland for nearly a decade, describe a pattern of discrimination that begins in childhood and lingers into adulthood. “We were told to change ourselves to fit in,” Ridi explained, highlighting how the Swiss system subtly pressures Indians to assimilate rather than embrace their cultural identities.

“Growing up in a country where the culture is unaccepting of Indians is difficult. While others are accommodated, Indians are often told to stay back and adapt to become more Swiss.”

Curry Munchers and the System’s Role

The sisters argue that stereotypes like “curry muncher” are not just slurs but reflections of a broader, institutionalized mindset. These terms, they say, are embedded in education and daily discourse, perpetuating the idea that Indians are less than equal. “The prejudice starts there, when adults silently accept that behavior from a young age,” Vasundhara noted, emphasizing how the Swiss system fails to challenge these ingrained biases. This creates a society where discrimination is normalized, even in the presence of strong infrastructure and economic success.

“Terms like ‘curry muncher’ are internalized over time, shaping societal attitudes toward minorities in a way that devalues their contributions and identities.”

Selective Outrage and Economic Superiority

The viral video of the incident sparked public debate, but the sisters believe the outrage was selective. “He started screaming outside our gate, and I politely spoke to him in French, explaining it was Thursday at 3:00 PM and there’s no law against using a leaf blower,” Ridi recounted. “What’s striking is that our neighbor, who was nearby at the same time, used a leaf blower without being targeted.” This contrast highlights how economic success can make Indians a focal point for prejudice, even as the same system turns a blind eye to similar behaviors from others.

“The system’s tolerance for discriminatory language is evident in how it allows stereotypes to flourish, even when they target the most visible members of the community.”

Undeveloped Mindset of a Developed Nation

The Oswal sisters question the true meaning of a “developed” nation, arguing that its infrastructure alone does not equate to an inclusive mindset. “We believe they are developed because of their incredible infrastructure and function as a wealth hub,” they said. “But a country can possess all these features and still harbor an underdeveloped attitude toward minority acceptance.” This perspective challenges the common assumption that economic progress automatically translates to social progress, revealing a gap between Switzerland’s global image and its local realities.

“In a society that prides itself on neutrality and order, the persistence of xenophobia shows that development is not synonymous with inclusivity.”

The Cost of Visibility

The sisters’ family wealth, while a source of pride, has also made them targets of scrutiny. “For some locals, accepting Indian economic superiority remains a bitter pill to swallow,” Vasundhara explained. This dynamic illustrates how economic success can amplify prejudice, as those who are visibly successful are seen as potential threats to the status quo. The incident, though personal, reflects a larger systemic issue—one that sees Indian expats as both contributors to and symbols of the country’s progress, depending on how they are perceived.

Towards a More Inclusive Future

The Oswal sisters’ experience serves as a call to action for Switzerland to address its systemic biases. They advocate for a cultural shift that values diversity and challenges stereotypes, ensuring that infrastructure supports inclusivity rather than perpetuates exclusion. “It’s not just about individual acts of racism,” Ridi said. “It’s about how the system allows such attitudes to thrive. If we want to call Switzerland a model of inclusion, we must first confront the biases that exist within its institutions.” Their story, while specific, highlights a universal truth: infrastructure may be strong, but inclusion requires more than just physical development—it demands a mindset that embraces all members of society.