Trainline, the ticket sales operator, has weighed in on a controversy surrounding 'Love Island' contestant Priya Jaswal, who faced criticism for comments made about fellow contestant Elicia Bailey's job at National Rail. The incident has sparked widespread debate online, with viewers branding Jaswal's remarks as "vile, classist, and tone deaf."
The controversy began when Bailey, who was previously dumped from the villa, appeared on the spin-off show 'AfterSun.' During a game segment, Bailey identified Jaswal as the "biggest game player" remaining on the show. This comment was later shown to Jaswal back in the villa.
Reacting to Bailey's assessment, Jaswal stated, "I don't care what Elicia says. I don't care. It's cringy. Go back to the National Rail. Elicia, you work for the National Rail, why are you f***ing sitting in Aftersun? ... But just go back there and save your breath."
Jaswal's comments quickly drew ire from viewers, who took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express their outrage. Many defended Bailey's role, highlighting the importance of railway workers and the value of all honest jobs. Some viewers demanded Jaswal's removal from the show.
Trainline responded to the situation with a tongue-in-cheek TikTok video shared on Wednesday. The video, using Jaswal's remarks as a voiceover, featured a member of their social media team holding train merchandise, with on-screen text stating, "It's an honest job, Priya."
During Jaswal's rant, fellow islander Kavan interjected, defending National Rail employment. However, other contestants Jasmine Müller and Mica Harris were noted to have giggled at Jaswal's remarks, contributing to further backlash.
Bailey, in a subsequent appearance on 'The Debrief' podcast, called Jaswal "bitter" following the personal attack. She stated that while she was asked a question on 'AfterSun,' Jaswal's comments were a personal attack on her workplace. Bailey suggested that Jaswal's reaction indicated jealousy.
In addition to the job-shaming controversy, Jaswal is also navigating relationship drama. The fallout from a 'Not Another Podcast' segment continued to affect her connection with fellow contestant Aidan. In a conversation, Jaswal expressed doubts about their relationship, telling Aidan, "I'm not sure I even back us," and acknowledging they are in "a bit of a sticky situation."
The discussion then shifted to Aidan's past feelings for Yasmin. Jaswal questioned whether Aidan had fully moved on, stating, "Had she not been with Tommy right now, you would be with Yas." Aidan admitted he "would potentially look to explore it," leaving Jaswal to conclude, "I don't think you're over it, your heart is elsewhere."