Popular Bengali biryani chain Meghana Foods has issued a public apology after an announcement at one of its outlets sparked widespread criticism online. The poster, written in large letters and widely circulated on social media, read: “Swiggy & Zomato delivery people are not allowed to enter the lift. Please use the stairs.” Many users called the instruction insensitive, arguing that delivery people are already working under heavy time pressure and harsh conditions.
Amid growing backlash, the brand released a statement on Instagram acknowledging the misstep. Meghana Foods said the rule was originally introduced to “offer customers convenience from crowded elevators” but admitted it was “inconsiderate” of delivery partners. “This was wrong. It should never have been exposed,” the statement read. “Our delivery partners work incredibly hard and deserve respect, dignity and care – always. Thank you for reaching out. The poster is down and the error has been resolved internally.”
The restaurant also “sincerely apologized” to the delivery drivers, calling them “the core of the Meghana Foods experience” and assured followers that it was committed to improving their experience.
However, several users doubted whether the change would translate into action and questioned whether delivery staff were now allowed to use the lift. Meghana Foods responded in the comments and confirmed that they can. Others suggested the apology only came after the controversy gained traction online.
One user commented: “If it wasn’t for social media, it seems like your team doesn’t care. It shows you don’t care about delivery partners, you only care about profit. This decision is shameful and shows no respect for the people who keep your service running.”
Another user wrote: ‘70% of your business is through delivery… you should have thought of that before disrespecting the hard working delivery ppl.
“You’ve said everything other than telling us if you’ve now allowed lift delivery partners. Taking down the poster is a solution for your brand, not the delivery partner. I hope you’ve put a solution here other than a corporate level ‘No solution’ excuse,” wrote a third user.
The comments section reflected a combination of appreciation and responsibility. Some applauded the restaurant for admitting its mistake; others pointed to the broader hypocrisy of individuals who criticize restaurants but restrict delivery workers in residential buildings. A recurring sentiment emphasized that delivery partners are essential to business and should be treated with the same respect as dine-in customers.
“Mistakes are bound to happen. Realizing this and bouncing back is the main thing to watch and appreciate. We hope delivery partners can now use elevator services at all branches,” the user wrote.
Another user wrote: “Wow. Well done Meghana!”
Meghana Foods operates several outlets across Bengaluru.
