‘Who Lacks Civic Sense?’: Indian Man’s Video Of Littered Amsterdam Street Stirs Debate Online

A viral video of trash-filled Amsterdam Central sparks debate on civic sense, challenging stereotypes about Indians and Europeans and highlighting public space management. (Image: instagram)

A video shared by an Indian traveller in Amsterdam has gone viral after it showed a busy street covered in trash following a night of partying. The man, surprised by the sight, questioned who truly lacks civic sense, Indians or Europeans, sparking a heated discussion online.

The video, shared by Rahul Mahajan on Tuesday, shows piles of garbage scattered across Amsterdam Central. Posting the clip, he wrote, “The British say Indians lack civic sense — look at their own.”

In the footage, he remarks, “People say India doesn’t have civic sense, but just look at the streets of Amsterdam Central — they’re full of trash.”

In the clip, he walks through a popular nightlife area filled with plastic cups, bottles, and food waste scattered across the pavement. Many viewers expressed shock, noting that European cities are often perceived as cleaner and more disciplined.

The video triggered a debate on social media. Some users argued that the scene proves poor civic behaviour exists everywhere, not just in India. Others pointed out that Amsterdam authorities typically clean nightlife zones early in the morning, which may explain the temporary mess.

Several commenters also stressed that systemic cleaning and public behaviour vary widely across regions, urging people not to generalise based on isolated incidents.

The video continues to circulate, prompting discussions around stereotypes, civic responsibility, and how cities manage public spaces after major gatherings or weekend crowds.