An Indian journalist expressed disappointment by an Indian journalist after paying huge amount to use a hotel toilet in Rajasthan despite the health concerns of the family member.
Megha Upadhyay, who works for Delhi -based news channel, shared in his story A LinkedIn Post“Title of Rs 805 for a washroom. Humanity?”
“I paid 805 rupees … just to use a toilet. Yes, you read it right,” Ms. Upadhyay said.
Ms. Upadhyay and her family were visiting the Khatu Shyam temple to fulfill their mother’s “long desire”.
He left his hotel for darshan at 6 in the morning, and was waiting in the line of 7, she continued.
Ms. Upadhyay said that she chose the “general philosophy process” and stood for two hours without any complaint.
“But in the middle of this type, something deeply upset,” he continued.
Ms. Upadhyay claimed that her mother was suddenly waiting for “very unhealthy” in the queue, and “nausea, stomach ache and a strong urge to vomit”.
His father searched for a toilet, but nothing was usable. Ms. Upadhyay said, “No washrooms near the temple area are around 1 km. Some public bathing areas, but no proper toilets.”
Next, they “arrived at a nearby hotel and begged the person at the reception” to use the toilet for five to ten minutes.
“He saw my mother’s position … and said, 800 rupees to use the toilet. We were surprised,” Ms. Upadhyay shared.
The family explained its “hotel 7 km away” and it was a case of “basic human dignity.”
The reception man refused to “boys” and he paid the amount.
Ms. Upadhyay said that the person started shouting when her father asked for a bill and “reluctantly we bill-for Rs 805.”
“No sympathy. No hesitation,” he said.
Ms. Upadhyay concluded her position, saying that it was “heartbreaking” to see such an event in a spiritual center, “A place where we go to find peace, kindness and faith.”
A fellow LinkedIn user apprised him of the Indian Sarais Act of 1867, which “allows every person to use a washroom for free anywhere in India.”
A user said, “Megha Upadhyay, being a media person and the 4th pillar of democracy, why didn’t you use the constitution?”
Another couple, “The call of nature is different from the uncomfortable of nausea, vomiting, etc., maybe he may have to remake it from the cleanliness point, clean it in case of offering a toilet inside the room.”
A user suggested, “Enter a proper case against that hotel. Also the bill is incorrect. You make sure to hide your personal details (as much as possible) while filing a complaint.”
British colonial government passed Sarais Act in 1867It was mainly designed to address “Sarai and the rest of India prevalent and often addressed poor conditions.
Although older, law still allows individuals to use washroom facilities in hotels and request water.
