Veteran BBC presenter Naga Munchetty, known for her long-standing role on BBC Breakfast, is facing serious allegations of bullying and inappropriate behaviour off-air. The 50-year-old journalist, of Indian origin, has reportedly been reprimanded by BBC bosses over two incidents in the past three years, raising concerns about the workplace culture within one of the UK’s most prominent broadcasting institutions.
What are the allegations against Naga Munchetty?
One of the incidents under scrutiny involved Munchetty allegedly making a crude and inappropriate comment during an off-air studio break, using a slang term for a sex act directed at a colleague. Those present described the comment as “crass, inappropriate, and wildly unprofessional,” leaving the recipient visibly embarrassed. Although management intervened and a senior producer reportedly reprimanded Munchetty, no formal disciplinary action followed.
In a separate incident that surfaced in 2024, Munchetty allegedly accused a junior female colleague of theft, an accusation insiders claim was completely unfounded. According to reports, the confrontation took place behind closed doors and left the staff member “humiliated” and “demoralised.” The colleague later left the organisation. “It really is the tip of the iceberg,” one insider told The Sun, suggesting there may be more incidents that have gone unreported.
The allegations against Munchetty come at a time when the BBC is already under intense scrutiny for workplace misconduct. Richard Frediani, the editor of BBC Breakfast, is currently under formal investigation for bullying. He is accused of shouting at staff, kicking a bin, and even physically shaking a female colleague. As part of the inquiry, BBC employees have been encouraged to share their experiences working under Frediani.
Sources say Frediani is on extended leave amid the investigation, and that his relationship with frontline presenters, including Munchetty and her co-host Charlie Stayt, has long been strained. “Fredi has no relationship with Charlie and Naga,” said a senior figure from the BBC’s Salford office. “They don’t talk to each other.” Ironically, Munchetty herself is reported to have previously raised concerns with BBC leadership about Frediani’s behaviour.
In a statement, the BBC declined to comment on individual cases but reiterated its commitment to a safe and respectful work environment. “We take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values,” a spokesperson said. “We have robust processes in place and encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us.”
Who Is Naga Munchetty?
Born Subha Nagalakshmi Munchetty-Chendriah in February 1975, she was nicknamed “Naga,” a Sanskrit word for cobra, after her mother reportedly experienced dreams featuring snakes during pregnancy. In a previous interview, Munchetty shared how she struggled with her unique name while growing up in the UK, facing teasing and racist comments from schoolmates. Munchetty has built a strong career in British journalism, having worked as a presenter on BBC World News, Working Lunch, and BBC Breakfast, which she joined in 2010. Over the years, she has become a familiar face in British households and a prominent figure in UK broadcasting.