VOIWORLD/Desk
An Indian woman visiting the United States was arrested at a Target store in Illinois for allegedly trying to steal goods worth nearly $1,000 (around ₹1.1 lakh). Her suspicious behavior reportedly led store staff to call the police.
A video circulating online shows a store employee accusing her of staying in the store for several hours, picking up items, checking her phone, and eventually attempting to leave without paying. “We saw this woman in the store for the last seven hours,” the employee said.
When police stopped her, she said, “I am sorry if this is a mistake. I am not from this country, and I won’t be staying here.” In response, a female officer said, “Are you allowed to steal things in India? I didn’t think so.”
The woman apologized and said her family lives in India. She was handcuffed and taken to the police station, where she was charged with felony theft.
The video has sparked debate online. Some users criticized her actions, saying it gave a bad image of Indians abroad. Others discussed whether there were cultural misunderstandings involved.
One user commented, “Because of her, people are looking at Indians negatively in America.” Another said, “Don’t bring shame to the country. Represent India with dignity.”
