Online backlash erupts after paan, gutka stains spotted on London streets

An online backlash erupted after a video surfaced showing London’s streets, particularly in the borough of Harrow, stained with red marks believed to be from gutka and paan spitting.

The video, shared by the X account @Harrow, showed sidewalks, bins, and public spaces covered with red stains, allegedly caused by people spitting paan openly in public areas.

The visuals sparked outrage and frustration among local residents, who criticised the unhygienic behaviour and called for action by authorities.

According to the video, paan shops are operating openly in London, and the recent opening of one such shop in Harrow led to a petition against it.

Authorities responded by taking action, in June alone, 33 fines were issued to individuals caught spitting paan in public.

Paan spitting is becoming a big problem in Harrow – with stains spreading from Rayners Lane to North Harrow. Residents are calling for more action. Full story on our site, link in bio.#Harrow #HarrowNews #RaynersLane #NorthHarrow pic.twitter.com/CiW8neiMWo

— Harrow Online (@harrowonline) August 2, 2025

In a broader crackdown against the illegal use and sale of tobacco products, the local administration reportedly seized more than 4,000 packs of unlicensed paan and cigarettes.

As per Harrow Council’s official website, the enforcement action was taken due to the absence of health warnings on the products and their illegal sale.

Citizens have also been encouraged to report public spitting and the illegal sale of such products through official complaint channels.

Cllr Pritesh Patel, Portfolio Holder for Cleaner Streets & Public Safety, said, “We will continue our work towards keeping Harrow clean and safe.”

Social media users called out the unhygeinic behaviour stating that such practices could lead to growing hatred and a crackdown on migrant communities.