‘Painters, pets told to use Lift D’: Pune housing society notice sparks online outrage

Pune society notice for painters, pets draws criticism

A housing society in Pune has come under sharp criticism after a notice enforcing separate lift usage for domestic workers and service staff surfaced online, triggering a wider debate on class bias in urban India, even in 2026.

The notice, now widely circulating on social media, instructs, “House maids to use Lift C or D only. Milkman, newspaper and courier distributors, laundry staff, labourers, painters and pets are to use only Lift D.” The directive effectively bars these groups from using the same elevators as residents, drawing accusations of exclusion and discrimination.

The ruling class treats workers like animals, avoiding them in lifts but sucking their blood.. (Location _ Pune) pic.twitter.com/GW0IDz0LtT

— Deepali_Salve (@deepali_writes) March 17, 2026

Many users online condemned the move, calling it a troubling reflection of deep-rooted class divisions. Critics argued that such rules go beyond convenience and reinforce a hierarchy that undermines the dignity of essential workers. One user noted that restricting access to common facilities sends a clear message about how society values the people who perform everyday services, from cleaning homes to delivering essentials.

Others highlighted the practical implications, pointing out that such restrictions unfairly prioritize the time and convenience of residents over workers. “Why should a CEO’s time be seen as more valuable than that of a delivery person or a milkman heading to the 30th floor?” one comment read, questioning the underlying mindset behind such policies.

Some users defended the move

However, not everyone agreed that the move was purely discriminatory. Some defended society’s decision as a logistical arrangement aimed at reducing congestion. They argued that delivery personnel often make multiple stops across floors, potentially holding up lifts during peak hours, which can inconvenience residents rushing for work or school.

A few also cited concerns over maintenance, claiming that workers carrying heavy materials could lead to increased wear and tear of lift interiors. According to this viewpoint, the segregation was framed as a functional necessity rather than a reflection of social hierarchy.