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‘Paan-Indian’ issue goes global: viral video of spitting stains across London streets sparks outrage

The viral video shows paan spit over a dustbin placed on the roadside in Harrow, London.

In a 2010 report published by BBC UK, the Brent Council ran an education campaign to eradicate the problems of paan (Image source: @harrowonline1/Instagram)

Chewing tobacco has long been a public nuisance in India, with paan stains frequently visible on streets and in public spaces. Now, the issue has crossed borders and reached Harrow in London, where tobacco consumers have been spitting paan, leaving noticeable stains across the area.

A video capturing distressing scenes from the streets of Harrow has triggered outrage on social media. The viral video shows paan spit over a dustbin placed on the roadside. As the clip progresses, several stains can be seen on the trees and pathways.

Shared by Harrow Online, the report states that the stains are mostly found in Rayners Lane and North Harrow. Residents in the area claimed that the stains have become common outside shops and takeaway restaurants selling chewing tobacco products. “Paan spitting is becoming a big problem in Harrow – with stains spreading from Rayners Lane to North Harrow. Residents are calling for more action,” the caption read.

Watch the viral video here:

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A post shared by Harrow Online (@harrowonline1)

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The video quickly gained traction, triggering outrage as several users blamed Indians. “The paan shop needs to take some responsibility for selling this tobacco,” a user wrote. “It’s these illegal students and uber eats drivers . Polluting Harrow near the college on the hill,” another user commented.

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“Indians doing their thing,” a third user reacted. “It’s disgusting and causes mouth cancer so puts more strain on the already overstretched NHS,” another user chimed in.

In a 2010 report published by BBC UK, the Brent Council ran an education campaign to eradicate the problems of paan spitting and also imposed fines of 80 pounds on those caught spitting paan in public places. Earlier, many videos of the media reporting the growing issue in Wembley went viral.