Swati Verma, an Indian national residing in Ireland’s Dublin, was walking home when she had a frightening encounter highlighting the persistent issue of racism in the city.
The incident, which occurred on the evening of October 8, 2025, has sparked widespread discussion across Ireland about the challenges immigrants face.
Verma was returning after a gym session and was barely a few steps away from her home when a well-dressed woman, wearing a Dublin City University (DCU) badge, approached her with a barrage of hostile, racially-charged questions.
“Why did you come to Ireland ? What are you doing here? Why don’t you go back to India?” the woman said. Despite being startled and frightened, Verma tried to stay calm. She later shared on Instagram, “I never thought I’d have to justify my e