I-PAC Co-Founder Calls Out ‘PIN Code Racism’ In Indian Cities, Sparks Debate
Last Updated:
Pratik Jain compared it to a social ranking system, where some PIN codes open doors while others close them.
He explained that “PIN code racism” extends beyond addresses. (Photo Credits: LInkedin)
Pratik Jain, co-founder and director of I-PAC, recently took to LinkedIn to highlight a hidden bias in Indian cities—what he calls “PIN Code Racism.” He described it as a deep-seated prejudice where a person’s residential address influences how they are perceived socially and professionally.
In a thought-provoking post, Pratik Jain pointed out how cities like Mumbai and Delhi judge individuals based on their locality. He compared it to a social ranking system, where some PIN codes open doors while others close them.
The Loaded Question: ‘Where Do You Live?’
Pratik Jain argued that from childhood, people are subjected to societal classification. Initially, kids are judged based on their parents’ profession. Later in life, the most defining question becomes, “Where do you live?” According to Jain, this is not just a casual question but a background check in disguise.
“In Delhi, ‘GK’ (Greater Kailash) is a flex. ‘Uttam Nagar’ is an apology. In Mumbai, ‘Bandra’ opens doors. ‘Ghatkopar’ slams them,” he wrote.
A Personal Experience
Jain, an IIT Bombay graduate from Ranchi, shared a personal anecdote to illustrate the issue. He recalled being invited to play golf with an elite group. When asked about his handicap, he jokingly responded, “The longer clubs.” His answer led to an awkward silence.
“The silence that followed taught me something – my real handicap wasn’t about golf clubs. It was about PIN codes that mark you before you even take your first swing,” he said.
Unspoken Social Divides
He explained that “PIN code racism” extends beyond addresses. It is reflected in subtle lifestyle choices—like whether someone says “red sauce pasta” or “arrabbiata.” He noted that this invisible divide creates a hierarchy between different social groups, reinforcing stereotypes.
Jain also criticised people who try to conceal their real backgrounds to fit in. He argued that hiding one’s origins erases the very people who shaped them. “Maybe it’s time we stopped being cartographers of shame and started being architects of acceptance,” he wrote.
Social Media Reactions
Jain’s post struck a chord with many LinkedIn users. One user commented, “Pincode racism is real, but can we stay true to ourselves when constantly judged? Or do we start becoming someone else?”
Another shared, “So relatable! People are often surprised when I speak good English because of my appearance or outfit. It’s not a compliment.”
Someone pointed out, “This is very common in Delhi and Mumbai. Even now, people judge me based on the school I went to, as if that defines my entire personality.”
- Location :
Delhi, India, India