Delhi eatery faces allegations of enforcing a ban on traditional Indian clothing; Chief Minister orders prompt investigation
In August 2025, a couple was denied entry to a restaurant at the Pitampura metro premises in Delhi due to the woman wearing traditional Indian attire (kurta-salwar). The couple claimed that they were treated disrespectfully and that the restaurant had an unofficial dress code that discriminated against Indian clothing, while allowing western wear[1][2][3][4][5].
Following the viral video and public backlash, the Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta ordered an immediate investigation. The Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra stated that the restaurant owner apologized publicly in a video and assured that no dress code discrimination would continue[1][2][4].
In response, the restaurant owner scrapped the dress code policy altogether. A notice welcoming guests in Indian attire was put up at the restaurant. The restaurant also announced special Rakshabandhan discounts for women wearing traditional outfits as an apology[1][2][4].
The incident sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many condemning the discrimination as disrespectful to Indian culture and labeling the attitude as a colonial mindset lingering in hospitality[3][5]. The authorities’ fast response and the owner’s apology led to a resolution ending the discriminatory practice.
Despite the restaurant owner's claims that the couple was refused entry not because of their attire, but because they had not booked a table[6], the disagreement between Mishra and the restaurant owner about the reasons for the denial of entry remains unresolved[7].
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and respect for all customers, regardless of their attire or cultural background. The restaurant's decision to scrap its dress code policy is a step in the right direction towards promoting a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
References:
- NDTV
- The Indian Express
- Hindustan Times
- The Times of India
- Business Standard
- The Hindu
- The Print
- The incident at the Pitampura metro premises restaurant, initially believed to be a dress code discrimination against traditional Indian clothing, sparked debate in the Indian political circles, with questions raised about the general-news issue of inclusivity and respect in crime-and-justice matters.
- In light of the ongoing controversy, various news outlets reported that the Delhi government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has initiated discussions on revising restaurant policies to prevent such incidents, emphasizing the importance of news related to equal treatment for all in politics and general-news sectors.
