Keep out: 'Locals' not welcome in this elite Diwali party for expats in Mumbai

Here's a Diwali party that isn't too keen about spreading the joy this festive season. The invites to a Diwali party hosted by the Elite Expats Club, which is part of the Mumbai Expats Club, reportedly stated that "locals" would not be allowed.

According to a Quartz report, the email invite for the October 27 party read: "Kindly note that this event is strictly for expats and Indian delegates. It would be highly appreciated if locals are not escorted unless they hold a govt political portfolio or are diplomats."

While Italian consul general in Mumbai Ugo Ciarlatani was supposed to be the chief guest at the event, he later withdrew his participation. The Italian embassy told Quartz that they had received a different invite which said both expats and those of Indian nationality would be invited.

Other dignitaries invited included Jennifer Larson, the deputy principal officer at the American consulate, who was listed to be the guest of honour at the event.

Meanwhile, Savio D'sa, the Indian founder of the club, has sought to downplay the discriminatory approach, citing security issues. "We do not have locals joining the Elite Expat Club event purely to ensure the security protocol, considering the profile of people being invited. We have a separate event for the Mumbai Expat club where locals will be allowed,” he told Quartz.