UAE diplomat complains of rude behaviour at Taj

A diplomat from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) complained of harassment at the Taj Mahal during his visit to the famed monument on Sunday. The diplomat accused the ASI staff of rude behaviour. Later, officials in Delhi and Agra got involved to sort out the matter.

A diplomat from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) complained of harassment at the Taj Mahal during his visit to the famed monument on Sunday.

The diplomat accused the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) staff of rude behaviour.

Later, officials in Delhi and Agra got involved to sort out the matter.

The diplomat returned from the Taj city, saying the matter would be taken up at the ‘appropriate level’.

The situation arose when the UAE diplomat, along with two others, reached the ticket window at Shilpgram for entry through the eastern gate at Taj Mahal.

The diplomat, who did not wish to be named, said the ASI staff repeatedly asked for his nationality and identity despite being shown the identity proof and passport’.

According to an ASI official, who did wish to be named, the diplomat had shown his identity proof and was given a ticket meant for Indians priced at `40 (also allowed for those on diplomatic duty in India).

“The trouble began when the diplomat was asked to provide ID proof of those accompanying him for being given Indian tickets but this led to dispute as these were not provided,” said the ASI official.

The diplomat reportedly contacted officials in Delhi authorities in Agra after which the ticket meant for Indians was given to his companions.

The diplomat said he was questioned at several points despite having told the staff that he was a diplomat.

“I was asked about identity proof at three points – at ticket counter, entrance gate and had to struggle for entry at main mausoleum where there is a separate queue for guests,” he said.