Backlash Forces Bengaluru Restaurant to Apologise Over Lift Ban for Delivery Staff

New Delhi, December 10, 2025: A popular Bengaluru restaurant chain, Meghana Foods, has issued a public and “sincere apology” after a sign at one of its outlets, which barred food delivery personnel from using the lift, sparked a massive public outcry and accusations of classism on social media.

The controversy began when a photo of a notice, reportedly posted near the elevator of the restaurant, went viral. The sign explicitly stated, “Swiggy & Zomato delivery boys not allowed in the lift. Please use the stairs.”

The Spark that Ignited Online Outrage

The image quickly spread across platforms like Reddit and Instagram, leading to a flood of comments from users who condemned the rule as insensitive and disrespectful. Many highlighted that the very people who sustain the restaurant’s booming delivery business—the gig workers—were being treated as second-class citizens.

Critics pointed out the harsh working conditions of delivery executives, who are constantly racing against time, often carrying heavy loads, and working in extreme weather. Forcing them to climb several flights of stairs added an unnecessary and unreasonable burden, especially when their job revolves around speed and efficiency. The online discourse quickly moved beyond simple inconvenience, with many labeling the policy as an unfortunate example of classism in a service-driven industry.

“This is about them trying to enforce classism,” one social media user commented, capturing the sentiment of many who felt the ban was an affront to the dignity of labour.

Restaurant’s Apology and Explanation

Faced with mounting public pressure and a wave of negative comments, Meghana Foods took to its official social media handle to address the issue.

The restaurant admitted the decision to put up the notice was a “wrong” move. While explaining that the rule was initially introduced with the intention of “offering customers convenience from crowded elevators,” the management conceded that the policy was ultimately “inconsiderate” to their delivery partners.

In their apology, the restaurant emphasized the crucial role delivery personnel play in their business. “Our delivery partners work incredibly hard and deserve respect, dignity and care — always,” the statement read. The management confirmed that the controversial poster had been immediately removed and the policy error was being addressed internally to ensure it is not repeated. They also clarified in comments that delivery personnel are now allowed to use the lift.

A Deeper Conversation on Worker Dignity

While the apology was accepted by some, others questioned whether the restaurant would have acted without the social media backlash, suggesting the change was driven more by public relations than a genuine change of heart.

Regardless of the intent, the incident has reignited a crucial public conversation in Bengaluru and across the country about the respect and facilities provided to the backbone of the booming digital economy—the food, grocery, and package delivery executives. It serves as a strong reminder to businesses that the workers who facilitate their service deserve not just recognition, but basic courtesy and equal access to amenities.