Bengaluru Mall In Centre of Storm Over Denying Entry To Farmer In Dhoti Shut For 7 Days

Bengaluru: The GT Mall in the city has been ordered to remain closed for seven days for denying entry to a dhoti-clad farmer. The dhoti-clad man was denied entry at the mall located on Magadi Road, sparking widespread condemnation and calls for immediate action. The incident occurred when the farmer, clad in traditional attire—a dhoti—attempted to enter the mall with his son to watch a movie. 

While announcing the closure, the Karnataka government said that an action will be taken against the mall for not allowing an elderly man inside.

According to eyewitnesses, the security guard at the mall gate barred the farmer from entering, allegedly citing his attire as the reason. "You can enter because you're wearing pants, but not because you're wearing a dhoti," the guard reportedly stated, leading to a heated exchange.

The farmer, Fakeerappa said, “They wouldn't allow us inside if we wear a dhoti and asked me to wear pants instead.” adding, “We are villagers who came from the distant Havery village. How can we change our attire?”

Nagaraj, the farmer's son said, “He is my father. We came to GT Mall to watch a cinema. We arrived here at 6 pm. Security denied us entry, saying he is wearing a dhoti. If they don't allow someone wearing a dhoti, how can we enter the mall? Security mentioned that this is the rule here and suggested we inquire who set this rule. Despite our repeated requests, they did not permit us inside. When we asked the security supervisor at the main gate, he also refused entry if wearing a dhoti.”

The incident has sparked a wave of outrage on social media, with netizens expressing solidarity with the farmer and condemning the mall's actions. The issue has also drawn parallels to a recent controversy where another farmer was denied entry into the metro, highlighting a growing concern over discrimination against rural residents in urban spaces.