A significant incident involving an off-duty Air India Express pilot and a passenger at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport has led to an arrest, a government-ordered investigation, and widespread public outcry. The pilot, Captain Virender Sejwal, was taken into custody by Delhi Police days after the alleged physical altercation but was released on bail the same day due to the bailable nature of the charges.
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The confrontation occurred on December 19 near the staff entry gate at Terminal 1 of IGI Airport. According to police details, passenger Ankit Dewan, who was travelling with his family including children, was directed by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel to use the staff gate. Coincidentally, Captain Sejwal, who was 'deadheading' (traveling as a crew member to operate another flight) to Bengaluru, was also using the same entry point.
The situation escalated from a verbal argument to an alleged assault. Reports indicate the argument began when Dewan questioned airline crew members, including the pilot, for moving ahead in the queue. The exchange turned physical, with Dewan claiming he was assaulted by the pilot, leaving him bleeding and requiring medical attention. He also stated the incident traumatized his young daughter. CISF personnel present at the scene intervened to separate the two individuals.
Initially, at the airport, Dewan was asked if he wished to file a formal complaint but he declined in writing and continued his journey. The pilot also proceeded with his travel plans. However, upon reaching his destination, Dewan took to social media platform X, posting regular updates about the episode. He demanded the release of CCTV footage and called for action, which amplified the incident into a national topic.
Investigation, Arrest, and Bail
The Delhi Police initiated a probe based on the social media posts and subsequent complaints. Deputy Commissioner of Police (IGI) Vichitra Veer confirmed that during the investigation, CCTV footage was collected and statements were recorded. Captain Virender Sejwal was called in for questioning and subsequently arrested a few days after the event.
He was booked under sections 115 (voluntarily causing hurt), 126 (wrongful restraint), and 351 (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). However, since these are bailable offences, he was granted bail and released on the very day of his arrest.
Official Reactions and Consequences
The incident drew serious attention from the highest levels of aviation authority. The Ministry of Civil Aviation ordered a probe into the matter and directed Air India Express to ground the pilot with immediate effect. The ministry also sought reports from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the CISF.
Air India Express responded swiftly by condemning the incident. In an official statement, the airline confirmed that the pilot had been removed from all flying duties pending the completion of the inquiry. The airline assured that appropriate disciplinary action would be initiated based on the final findings of the investigation.
This case highlights critical issues concerning passenger rights, crew behavior off-duty, and the protocol for handling such altercations at secured airport zones. The swift social media reaction played a pivotal role in bringing the incident to light and prompting official action from both the airline and government authorities.
