‘When will we learn?’: Harsh Goenka questions civic sense of Indian tourists after they turn Vietnam airport into picnic spot

Civic sense in India has long been a topic of debate. From mindlessly throwing garbage on the streets to spitting chewing tobacco in public places and people disregarding traffic signals, basic etiquette often takes a backseat. Such behaviours become even more concerning when Indians travel abroad and continue with their poor mannerisms. Recently, billionaire industrialist Harsh Goenka drew attention to one such instance, featuring Indian travellers enjoying food at the Vietnam airport.

Indian travellers enjoy ‘picnic’ at Vietnam airport

On November 7, Harsh Goenka posted a video on his official X-handle where a group of Indian travellers was seen sitting on the floor of the airport terminal, eating their meals. Some of them sat on the chairs holding plates, while others spread out newspapers and kept the food containers on them.

Some of the men were captured posing for the camera happily with plates in their hands, unbothered by the fact that their actions could impact other passengers. In simple terms, they were fully immersed in the feast as if enjoying a picnic, without caring about the inconvenience of others.

Harsh Goenka slams lack of civic sense

Along with the post, Harsh Goenka penned a short yet impactful note, questioning the behaviour. The industrialist noted that while Vietnam has become a popular tourist destination among Indian travellers, it was unfair to turn airport terminals into picnic spots.

Harsh Goenka added that spreading food all over the floor and littering the premises painted Indians in a bad light. ‘We risk becoming very unpopular tourists,’ he noted, asking one important question: When will we learn to travel with civic sense?’ The clip drew massive reactions from social media users.

Internet reactions

‘This problem can be solved easily. Just identify them, cancel their passports, and give it good publicity. Indians behave only when there are consequences,’ read a stern remark. ‘Indians travel with low IQ, poor civic sense and stupid manners. They proudly glorify their ill manners and dirtiness. Never follow the law of the land. So all Indians get rude behaviour from these country people,’ pointed out another.

‘This is super pathetic! I am surprised that the Airport Authority has allowed this sickening way of enjoying food in a public place,’ wrote an angry individual. ‘A trip is not about photos. It's about tasting local food, understanding local culture, and talking to local people. What is the point of travelling 3200 km with home-cooked food?’ asked one person.