A viral video showing red stains splattered across public spaces in Harrow, London, has stirred a wave of criticism, with many blaming migrant communities for what some are calling a “public hygiene crisis.” The clip, filmed in Rayners Lane and North Harrow, highlights spitting stains believed to be caused by paan and gutka forms of chewing tobacco popular in South Asia.

The video, widely circulated on social media, shows the vivid red marks on sidewalks, dustbins, and near shop entrances. Many residents say the problem has worsened in recent weeks, especially outside stores and takeaway outlets that sell chewing tobacco products.

“This is becoming a big problem in Harrow,” the caption of the original post read. “Residents are calling for more action.”

Anger, Stereotypes, and a Call for Action

Online reaction was swift and divisive. Some users condemned the habit as “disgusting,” while others used the video to criticise migrants, particularly those of Indian origin.

“Start checking teeth while giving visa,” one sarcastic commenter wrote. Another added, “Indians doing their thing.” A few people expressed concern about the health risks of gutka, calling for bans and higher fines. “It’s disgusting and causes mouth cancer, so puts more strain on the already overstretched NHS,” a user posted.

However, others urged caution, pointing out that the actions of a few individuals shouldn’t be used to generalise entire communities.

Council Steps Up Enforcement

In response to the growing concern, Harrow Council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public cleanliness. “Paan spitting is disgusting, unhygienic and costly to remove,” a council spokesperson said. They confirmed that under the existing Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), anyone caught spitting in public is liable for a £100 fine.

In July alone, the council issued 33 fines and launched targeted operations at paan-selling establishments. Over 4,000 packs of illegal tobacco and thousands of banned cigarettes were seized as part of the crackdown.

Officials have also reminded shopkeepers to maintain cleanliness outside their premises and adhere to public health regulations.

A Longstanding Issue, Now Global

While paan spitting has long been a public nuisance in India, this incident shows the problem is not confined by borders. Some local residents fear that the arrival of shops selling paan in the area may worsen the issue.

This isn’t the first time the UK has tackled the problem. In the past, cities like Leicester and Brent have installed bilingual signs and issued fines in an attempt to curb the habit.

Despite enforcement, the issue has ignited broader questions around civic responsibility, integration, and how public behaviour reflects on communities in multicultural societies.

For now, Harrow’s residents are hoping for cleaner streets — and that respect for shared public spaces becomes a priority, no matter where you’re from.