A man shopping at a Mr DIY mall in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, was shocked to find paan stains inside a dustbin that was on display for sale. A video of the incident, shared by an X user, has since gone viral on social media.
Display Dustbin Found Used for Spitting
In the now-viral video, filmed inside the Mr DIY store, the man is seen opening what appears to be a display-model dustbin placed on the shop floor. As soon as the lid is lifted, the camera zooms in to reveal the inside filled with red-coloured gutkha spit stains and residue, suggesting that people had been improperly using the display item as a real dustbin.
Netizens React With Anger and Humour
Soon after the video went viral, social media users reacted with a mix of outrage and sarcasm. One user wrote, “The country needs only good education right now.” Another commented, “Masala ka shehar hai.”
Calls for Accountability
Some users pointed out that CCTV cameras installed inside the store could help identify the individual responsible. Others criticised the habit of public spitting, with one comment reading, “Ye gutkha khane wale kahin bhi thook dete hain.”
Gutkha Ban and Public Spitting Laws
Gutkha has been banned in several states, including Maharashtra, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, since 2012–13 due to serious health risks, though illegal sales continue. Public spitting is prohibited under municipal laws, with fines typically ranging from ₹50 to ₹500, and higher penalties in some cities.
