A viral video from Himachal Pradesh has triggered fierce criticism on social media, with users calling it irresponsible and disruptive in an ecologically sensitive tourist region.
What the viral video shows
The clip, which has gone viral over X, is from a snowbound district of Himachal Pradesh recording sub-zero temperatures. A group of five to six young men dance on a snow-covered roadside with loud music playing in the background. There is a parked car near the road, partially blocking the passage.
In the video, at least three men are seen shirtless despite the freezing conditions. Others are seen holding liquor bottles and hookahs. The surrounding mountains and the road are thickly covered in snow, underlining the harsh weather conditions in which the celebration takes place.
Post that fuelled the debate
The video was shared by an X user, who strongly criticised the conduct of the tourists. Writing on his handle, he said that such behaviour has marred the reputation of most Indian tourist sites, as well as affecting their relations with the local communities. According to him, the local communities had a warm place in their hearts for the hill tribes.
He wrote, "Now it is crystal clear why foreign tourists avoid famous places in India and move to quiet side areas. Disrespectful behaviour has pushed locals to the edge and ended the warmth they were once known for. There is no excuse or justification for this."
Social media reactions pour in
The video has elicited numerous reactions, with many calling for stricter measures to handle public nuisance in tourist areas. Some viewers have called on state authorities to establish a good precedent to enable them to handle whatever might come to pass in the future.
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A user commented, "State government and police should set some good precedent in the best interest of tourism. Such display is enough to scares tourists those really contribute to tourism industry in real sense by staying in good hotels,etc"
Another user wrote, "Not just foreign tourists but well heeled family tourists as well. Alcohol consumption and the selling of the same should be banned completely in eco sensitive places."
Another user commented, "Zero civic sense. They are showing their great culture. With this kind of behaviour we may require inter state permits to travel in future."
