In India it is rude to step over someone. The reason is simple: you would be revealing the soles of your feet to them.

On Indian railway platforms and in airport lounges you will often find people sleeping on the ground. In order not to offend them, when you need to pass such a person, it is considered polite to wake them up and ask them to move. Don’t just step over someone.

When you are woken up, make sure to respond in a friendly way. When you are waking someone up, be patient. It is very important in India not to get impatient or, if you do, to be sure not to show it. It will not only embarrass people; you will lose their respect.