Ho Chi Minh City: An Indian family has come under criticism after an Indian restaurant in Vietnam accused them of damaging property, verbally abusing staff and behaving aggressively after being asked to stop their children from throwing tissues around the dining area.
The incident allegedly took place at Bombay Bites HCM, an Indian restaurant located in Ho Chi Minh City‘s District 1. The allegations surfaced after the restaurant shared details of the incident on Instagram, prompting widespread discussion on social media about tourist behaviour, parenting in public spaces and respect for hospitality workers.
Restaurant alleges property damage and abuse
According to the restaurant owners, the incident began shortly after the family arrived with their children.
Manmeet, the restaurant’s owner, alleged that the children started throwing tissues around the dining area. He claimed that when staff politely requested the children to stop, the behaviour continued and the parents allegedly handed them more tissues instead of intervening.
He further alleged that the situation escalated when restaurant staff made another request, following which the family became confrontational and damaged property inside the establishment.
Aishwarya Khanna Singh, co-owner of the restaurant, alleged that staff members were verbally abused during the altercation and that the family attempted to avoid responsibility by claiming to be social media influencers.
Restaurant issues public statement
In a statement shared on Instagram, the restaurant stressed the importance of respecting public spaces and hospitality workers.
The owners stated that restaurants are not playgrounds and urged parents to teach children accountability and civic responsibility. They said that disregarding basic manners affects restaurant staff, other diners and businesses alike.
The restaurant also emphasised that having an online presence or influence does not place anyone above expected standards of public behaviour.
Police informed about incident
According to Manmeet, the matter has been reported to the local police in Vietnam.
He said authorities advised the restaurant to immediately contact them if the family returned and caused any further disturbance, after which a formal case would be registered.
The restaurant owner also alleged that the family, reportedly from Delhi, had since deleted their social media profiles. However, this claim has not been independently verified.
Incident sparks online debate
The allegations have generated significant discussion on social media, with many users expressing concern over tourist etiquette and respectful behaviour while travelling abroad.
Several users criticised the alleged conduct described by the restaurant, while others stressed the importance of parental responsibility in ensuring children behave appropriately in public places.
The incident has also reignited conversations about the treatment of hospitality workers and the need for visitors to respect local businesses and public property.
Allegations yet to be independently verified
The restaurant’s account of the incident has attracted widespread attention online. However, the allegations against the family have not been independently verified, and there has been no public response from those accused at the time of publication.
Authorities are expected to examine the matter if a formal complaint is pursued under local law.
Conclusion
The incident has highlighted the importance of responsible behaviour while travelling abroad and respecting local businesses and hospitality staff. As discussions continue online, the allegations remain unverified, and any further action will depend on the findings of the local authorities.