A 52-year-old Indian tourist was allegedly assaulted by a group of transgender women in Thailand's popular beach resort city of Pattaya, following a dispute reportedly over an unpaid service fee. A video of the incident, which occurred on December 27, has sparked widespread reactions online after going viral on social media platforms.
Details of the Pattaya Assault
According to local media reports, the incident took place near the entrance of the famous Walking Street area in Pattaya. An eyewitness told rescue workers that they saw the Indian man, identified as Raj Jasuja, arguing with a transgender sex worker. The argument is said to have escalated into a physical confrontation, with both parties allegedly chasing and hitting each other.
The situation intensified when the man reportedly tried to leave the area in a car after refusing to pay the requested amount. At this point, others joined in, leading to a group assault. The viral video, shared widely on platform X (formerly Twitter), shows three transgender women thrashing the man with slippers. He was allegedly kicked and beaten before emergency responders could intervene.
Aftermath and Investigation
The Indian national sustained injuries to his face and the back of his head. He received first aid at the scene and was subsequently taken to a hospital for further treatment. Reports indicate he was treated at Pattamakun Hospital and later at Pattaya Memorial Hospital.
Thai police have stated that they plan to ask the man to file a formal complaint once he has fully recovered from his injuries. A detailed investigation into the matter is currently underway to ascertain the complete sequence of events and the claims made by both sides.
Online Reactions and Past Incidents
The viral video triggered a wave of comments on social media. While some users criticized the man's alleged conduct, others focused on the violent nature of the response. One user commented on the nationality angle, while another stated that if the man indeed refused payment after availing services, his nationality was irrelevant. A third user remarked that trying to renegotiate a price after a service was rendered was a typical behavior pattern.
This is not an isolated incident in Pattaya. In September, an Indian man was attacked by a transgender sex worker after he allegedly touched her inappropriately. In another case in October, three Thai transgender women reportedly assaulted two Indian nationals at a Pattaya hotel and fled with valuables worth approximately 24,000 baht (around Rs 69,000).
The series of events highlights the challenges faced by tourists in navigating the nightlife and service economy in certain international destinations. It also underscores the importance of clear agreements and personal safety while traveling abroad.
