An incident at Bengaluru’s GT World Mall has sparked outrage as an elderly farmer was allegedly denied entry simply for wearing a dhoti. According to reports, the incident occurred on Tuesday when security personnel at the mall stopped the man from entering, citing his traditional attire as the reason.
In a video shared online, the son of the elderly farmer recounted the incident, showing footage of security personnel barring their entry.
It was revealed that the father and son duo had tickets booked for a movie at the mall, but were stopped at the entrance. The security staff reportedly insisted that the elderly man change into pants before being allowed inside.
The situation escalated as news of the incident spread, prompting a group of farmers to gather and protest outside the mall premises. Criticism mounted against the mall’s management, with many questioning the policy that prevented entry based on traditional clothing.
#BreakingNews | Farmer in dhoti denied entry into G. T. Mall in #Bengaluru
Avantika Singh @reethu_journo pic.twitter.com/I4x2r5i2hf
— News18 (@CNNnews18) July 17, 2024
In response to the outcry, a News report stated that the elderly man explained to mall personnel that changing clothes was not feasible as they were traveling. However, the mall supervisor reiterated that it was a strict policy enforced by management.
#WATCH | Karnataka: A group of farmers, along with pro-Kannada organisation, protests in front of GT World Mall in Bengaluru, alleging denial of entry to a farmer who was wearing 'dhoti'. pic.twitter.com/dhf6LPOou4
— ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2024
Political figures also weighed in on the controversy, with BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla condemning the incident and accusing the Karnataka government of disrespecting farmers. Poonawalla highlighted the cultural significance of the dhoti, noting that even the Karnataka Chief Minister wears it, and criticized the mall for what he perceived as discrimination against traditional attire.
The incident has reignited discussions about cultural sensitivity and respect for traditional attire in public spaces, drawing attention to the treatment of individuals based on their clothing choices.
