Indian-origin writer’s controversial comment on Pakistani traveller leaves internet divided

The writer, Nivedita Shukla, a Dublin-based author, shared her account on social media, beginning with remarks about a perceived rise in hostility towards Indians abroad.

“I have been traveling around for years but now it feels different. The hate for India and Indians is at peak and we subconsciously feel every one is hating on us,” she wrote.

Shukla described the Pakistani national as a “fellow brown-skinned traveller” who appeared to be searching for affordable food options at airport outlets.

She further wrote: “Humble clothing, unkempt face, a ragged backpack and a faded jacket. Something told me this man was poor. Most people were either looking at him with a judgmental look or avoiding him completely.”

According to her post, she initially considered offering him extra food she was carrying. However, she later said she noticed that the man was travelling to Karachi.

“I turned around and walked back to my chair. Jaa m**! (Go die),” she wrote, a remark that quickly triggered backlash on social media.

Her post drew sharp criticism online, with users condemning the language and tone, calling it offensive and inappropriate. Several commenters also accused her of promoting hostility and misrepresenting Indian travellers abroad.