Delhi Restaurant Denies Entry to Couple, Sparks Outrage
A restaurant in Delhi’s Pitampura area is at the center of a major controversy after a video surfaced online alleging that a couple was denied entry for wearing Indian attire. The video, which quickly went viral across social media platforms, shows the couple recounting their experience and accusing the restaurant’s management of discriminatory behavior.
According to the footage, the couple claimed that despite others being allowed entry, they were turned away solely because of their traditional Indian clothing. The person recording the clip can be heard calling for immediate closure of the restaurant, accusing it of harboring an anti-Indian attire policy.
This is unacceptable in Delhi
पीतमपुरा के एक रेस्टोरेंट में भारतीय परिधानों पर रोक का वीडियो सामने आया है
ये अस्वीकार्य है
CM @gupta_rekha जी ने घटना का गंभीरता से संज्ञान लिया है
अधिकारियों को इस घटना की जांच व तुरंत कार्यवाही के निर्देश दिए गए हैं https://t.co/ZUkTkAZmAT
— Kapil Mishra (@KapilMishra_IND) August 8, 2025
Minister and CM Step In Following Viral Clip
The incident caught the attention of Delhi cabinet minister Kapil Mishra, who took swift action by informing Chief Minister Rekha Gupta about the matter.
“This is unacceptable in Delhi,” Mishra posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). “A video has surfaced showing a ban on Indian attire at a restaurant in Pitampura. CM @gupta_rekhaji has taken serious note of the incident. Officials have been directed to investigate the matter and take immediate action.”
In a follow-up post, Mishra announced that the restaurant operators had agreed not to impose any dress code restrictions. He further revealed that the establishment would celebrate Rakshabandhan by offering discounts to women visiting in Indian attire.
Owner Rejects Allegations, Cites Booking Issue
However, the restaurant’s owner, Neeraj Aggarwal, dismissed the accusations as false. In his statement, Aggarwal claimed that the couple had been denied entry not because of their clothing, but because they did not have a prior table booking.
“We welcome everyone, and there has never been any policy regarding attire,” Aggarwal insisted. “All customers, regardless of what they are wearing, are treated equally.”
Despite the owner’s clarification, the viral video had already ignited a storm of reactions online, with netizens demanding accountability and in some cases, calling for the restaurant’s closure.
Social Media Divided Over Response
Public opinion on the incident remains sharply divided. While some users welcomed the intervention by the CM and the minister, others criticized the need for top-level political involvement in what they saw as a basic case of public discrimination.
“Shut the restaurant down. And if it has any branches elsewhere, shut those down too. This very mentality has tormented us for years,” wrote one user.
Another remarked, “A minister and CM had to be involved for entry into a restaurant. What else can the common man hope for?”
On the other hand, some voices called for patience and suggested awaiting the outcome of the official investigation before drawing conclusions.
Broader Debate on Cultural Pride and Freedom of Choice
The controversy has reignited discussions on the cultural identity of Indian attire and the rights of establishments to enforce dress codes. While many argued that banning traditional clothing in India’s capital is an insult to the nation’s heritage, others noted that restaurants often maintain specific dress guidelines to align with their brand image—though such policies should be clearly communicated.
With CM Rekha Gupta ordering an investigation, officials are expected to examine CCTV footage, speak to eyewitnesses, and review the restaurant’s operational policies to determine whether the allegations hold merit.
Impact on the Restaurant’s Reputation
Whether the incident turns out to be a misunderstanding or a genuine case of attire-based discrimination, the damage to the restaurant’s public image has already been significant. Social media reviews and comments have taken a sharp negative turn, with many users pledging to boycott the establishment until more clarity emerges.
As Delhi gears up for Rakshabandhan festivities, the restaurant’s offer of discounts to women in traditional attire might help in mending relations with the community. However, the incident serves as a cautionary tale for businesses—reminding them that in the age of instant social media outrage, perception often becomes reality.
