A volatile digital standoff is unfolding across North India, with the hashtag #BoycottUttarakhand trending aggressively on social media. The movement, spearheaded by prominent Haryana-based social media influencers, is fueled by mounting allegations that tourists from the state are being systemically targeted, harassed and subjected to hostility by both local residents and authorities whenever they travel in vehicles bearing “HR" license plates.
The situation escalated following a confrontation on May 20 in the Kaali ki Dhaal area of Rishikesh. Two youths from Kaithal, travelling in a Venue car bearing HR08 series number were mobbed by a group of locals following a dispute involving a woman and her daughter. Videos of the incident, which showed the individuals being publicly humiliated and assaulted, have triggered a massive wave of indignation.
Harsh Chhikara, a well-known influencer, has been at the forefront of this backlash, openly alleging that residents in mountainous regions harbour a bias against “HR" numbered vehicles and frequently use minor pretexts to initiate harassment or issue challans.
Similarly, Ravinder Tomar (Buggi Wala) known for his social activism, has publicly called for a boycott of Uttarakhand as a tourism destination. In a viral video, he stated, “Our youth are being insulted there. They target HR-numbered vehicles. If Haryana tourists stop visiting, they will realise our value. I am protesting against this treatment and urge every Haryanvi to join the boycott."
In response to the growing unrest, political figures like Digvijay Chautala have waded into the discourse, emphasizing the need for the protection of Haryanvi youth. Chautala has advocated for fair treatment, arguing that tourists should be treated according to the rule of law rather than through mob intimidation and street-level “justice," which he contends damages the image of both the state and the tourism sector.
The #BoycottUttarakhand trend has faced significant counter-pushback, particularly following a separate incident in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. A group of tourists from Haryana was filmed openly smoking a hookah on the historic Ridge Road, a strictly prohibited public area. The video sparked widespread outrage, with many social media users and local authorities criticizing the lack of civic sense displayed by the visitors.
Shimla Police, under the direction of SP Gaurav Singh, intervened to disperse the group and issued a stern warning, stating, “Open defiance of the law will not be tolerated. Strict action will be taken against anyone who flouts regulations in public spaces."
This incident has been cited by critics of the boycott movement as evidence that a segment of tourists from the state is contributing to the very animosity they claim to be victims of, further complicating the public narrative regarding tourist accountability and regional stereotyping.
