Bengaluru mall faces criticism over VIP washroom policy

“I had an infuriating experience this weekend at Phoenix Whitefield that I feel needs some attention. I had travelled from Church Street specifically to shop there (which is quite a distance to travel), and before diving into my shopping, I needed to use the restroom,” the Reddit user wrote. Here’s where it gets frustrating: the ground floor restroom is now designated as a “VIP” restroom, guarded by a female security officer. She insisted that I show a shopping bill,” says the user.

Due to his inability to present a 1000 rupee note, he was denied access to the VIP bathroom and instead sent to the restrooms on other floors. Unfortunately, he discovered that these facilities were in poor condition, with many toilets out of order. It appears that a significant number of visitors were also being redirected to these less desirable bathrooms, as not everyone carries a 1000 Rs bill.

Discriminatory Bathroom Policy at Phoenix Whitefield – An Unacceptable Experience
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He expressed his frustration with this policy, noting that it becomes particularly bothersome in urgent situations when one has to hunt for alternative restrooms. He mentioned that he has never faced such a problem in any other malls he has visited.

The post he shared on Reddit garnered numerous comments.

“This is so true. There is a lady security guard who stops people from entering and asks the people to pay and get some kind of pass. Is that a golden toilet washroom or what? To keep it hidden from ordinary poor people like us,” said one comment.

“Yes, this is true- I paid it first time thinking there is no other restroom in the mall. And they kind of guilt trip you into saying, its just a donation- why not pay? I really never understood their concept of mandatory, voluntary donation. If they are going to fleece people might as well accept it,” was another comment.