Passport office denies entry to youth in shorts, viral post sparks debate: ‘He should have gone in a sherwani'

Indian Express

30-04-2025

A young man's visit to a passport office has ignited a wider debate on dress codes and generational attitudes after he was denied entry for wearing shorts. The incident, which took place at a regional passport office in a Tier-2 city in India, was witnessed by Vineeth K, 35, a consultant, who shared his observations in a post on X.
Vineeth recounted that the security personnel at the passport office refused entry to the man wearing shorts. In response, the man argued that he wears the same attire to his corporate office without issue, questioning why it should be unacceptable at a government office.
After a brief two minutes of discussion, the man's father entered the passport office and requested the officer to allow his son inside, explaining that they had travelled a long distance for the appointment. 'Finally after a 2 minute discussion, his dad (in 60s), went inside and requested passport officer to give an exception saying his son came from very far,' Vineeth wrote in the post.
Vineeth further shared that the security allowed the man inside, however, he said, 'Some people don't give value to our work and our offices. Who comes to the office in nightwear? There are women, elders inside – what if they feel uncomfortable? Entire generation is getting spoiled & their parents don't say a word.'
See the post here:
Today's incident – A perspective
A young adult came to passport office in his shorts today (I was waiting outside for my turn)
Security told, shorts are not allowed – this is passport office
He said, we go to out corporate offices this way. Why don't you allow to a govt… pic.twitter.com/hpAMxC4B4i
— Vineeth K (@DealsDhamaka) April 29, 2025
With over one lakh views, the post triggered a debate as several users backed the man for wearing shorts. 'What is so offensive about shorts ? We used to have the entire indian police force wearing shorts until 70s,' a user wrote. 'I agree he should have gone in a sherwani,' another user commented.
'This idiot won't walk into the American Embassy in shorts for a US Visa. Dress appropriately,' a third user said. 'That same guy would have worn a shoe and Jeans when headed to a pub or restobar,' a fourth user chimed in.