AN INDIAN restaurant operating in the heart of the Lake District has banned Asians from eating there at Bank Holidays and busy times, reports Karen Barden.

Prominent Milton Keynes businessman Moshinali Darugar and his wife Rehmat were disgusted at being turned away from the Emperor of India, in the centre of Bowness, during the Easter weekend.

Told the restaurant had no free tables, despite being relatively empty, suspicious horologist Mr Darugar went back to the nearby Royal Hotel, where the couple were staying, and told staff of their rejection.

Receptionist Billy McCabe anonymously phoned the restaurant to ask about availability and was told there was plenty of space. Hotel manager Maria Walker was incensed when she heard what had happened, particularly as they had recommended the Emperor of India to the Darugars.

"I was shocked and disgusted and asked them what the problem was," said Mrs Walker. "I was told they didn't serve Asian people as they caused too many problems and that white and English people were easier to look after.

"I said it was racist. We certainly will not be sending any other visitors there."

But Bangladeshi assistant manager at the Emperor of India Fozle Rabbi stressed the issue was eating habits, not race.

"People from India and Pakistan complain that our dishes do not have enough hot spices. Our menu is for the English, who do not like hot spices such as fresh hot chillies.

"We are very busy at Bank Holidays. We have not time to make special dishes. It would be a load of hassle. We say we are fully booked, if Asians ask."

Mr Rabbi denied any prejudice, saying on Tuesday night this week the chef had cooked for five Indian guests and that the business had run successfully for five years.

Owner of a well-known watch and clock business, Mr Darugar said he was not given any explanation, adding that in a lifetime of international travel he had never encountered such treatment.

He has complained to the Commission for Racial Equality, police and Cumbria Tourist Board, explaining the Easter trip was to have heralded the couple's 65th birthdays and 40th wedding anniversary.

"My wife has always wanted to come to the Lakes. I had a heart attack last year and we decided to make a special weekend," he said.

It was the first trip in their new car, a £64,500 Mercedes. After the incident, Kenyan-born Mr Darugar said they had a sleepless night and returned home after breakfast. His two daughters, an anaesthetist and orthodontist, cried when told what had happened.

"We are polite, professional people. We always say be respectful and be respected'. We were smartly dressed that Sunday night. I even polished my shoes," said Mr Darugar, who has lived in England for 43 years.

Senior media and public affairs officer for the Commission for Racial Equality Lisa MacKenzie said she could not comment on individual cases, but the Race Relations Act covered incidents in pubs and restaurants. Complaint forms are currently being compiled.

Cumbria Tourist Board chief executive Chris Collier said "these were not the sort of messages the county wanted to put out".

Cumbria Police spokesman Mike Smith said once Mr Darugar had made a statement, the matter would be looked at.

As for Mr Darugar, the experience has not put him off the Lakes, and he pledged to return.

"It is a very beautiful place and the rest of the people were lovely."

May 2, 2003 09:00