HYDERABAD, India – A disagreement between customers and staff at a restaurant in Hyderabad’s Abids Grand Hotel took a violent turn over the quality of biryani, capturing an alarming scene on a video that circulated on social media.
The video allegedly shows waiters attacking a group of patrons with sticks, with the distressing sounds of women screaming in the background. According to reports, the customers from Dhoolpet had gathered at the restaurant to celebrate the New Year. Displeased with the biryani’s quality, the customers requested a replacement, but the substituted food was also unsatisfactory.
The situation escalated into a physical altercation after the family confronted the restaurant staff about the issue. The restaurant staff claimed that the customers not only created a disturbance but also threw furniture around during the confrontation.
After the incident, the staff members involved were charged under Sections 324, 506, and 509 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and subsequently released on bail. The victims allegedly reached out to Goshamahal MLA, resulting in an exchange between the MLA and the inspector that went viral on social media, with the MLA issuing a threat to set the restaurant ablaze if adequate action was not taken by the police.
Reportedly, the MLA demanded the closure of the restaurant and the arrest of its owner and others involved. The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Abids) stated that an argument ensued when the server questioned the customers about the biryani, leading to the altercation with the staff.
The incident highlights the importance of addressing customer complaints in a professional manner, and it also sheds light on the potential consequences of failing to do so. This situation is a reminder of the need for effective conflict resolution and customer service, as well as the legal and ethical responsibilities of both customers and staff in ensuring a peaceful and satisfactory dining experience.