A major controversy has erupted at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport after an Air India Express pilot allegedly physically assaulted a passenger. The incident, which occurred on Friday, has led to the pilot's immediate suspension and prompted an investigation by Delhi Police.
Altercation Over Queue Jumping Sparks Violence
The conflict began when the victim, Ankit Dewan, and his family were directed to use a staff and PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) security checkpoint due to traveling with a four-month-old infant in a stroller. According to Dewan's detailed social media post, an argument broke out when he objected to Air India Express pilot Virender Sejwal allegedly jumping the queue.
Dewan claimed that the pilot responded by calling him 'illiterate' before the verbal spat escalated into a physical attack. The assault allegedly traumatized Dewan's seven-year-old daughter, who witnessed the entire event. Dewan stated he was left shaken by the brutal nature of the incident involving an airline employee.
Delhi Police Takes Cognizance, Victim Alleges Pressure
Nearly twelve hours after the event, Delhi Police announced they had taken note of the incident through social media but clarified that no formal written complaint had been filed at the police station. In a statement on X, police officials said appropriate legal action would be taken once a written complaint is received.
However, Ankit Dewan presented a disturbing account of his interaction with authorities. He alleged that the police pressured him to write a letter stating he would not pursue the matter further, threatening that refusal would cause him to miss his flight and forfeit holiday bookings worth approximately 1.2 lakh rupees. Dewan questioned why he couldn't file a complaint upon returning to Delhi and expressed concern over the preservation of crucial CCTV footage.
Airline Acts Swiftly, Removes Pilot from Duty
In response to the growing outcry, Air India Express issued a firm statement condemning the behavior. The airline confirmed the incident involved an employee who was traveling as a passenger on another airline. The company stated that pilot Virender Sejwal has been removed from all official duties with immediate effect, pending a thorough investigation.
The airline emphasized its commitment to high standards of conduct and professionalism, assuring that disciplinary action would be initiated based on the inquiry's findings. This swift action highlights the serious view taken by the carrier regarding employee behavior, even when off-duty.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about passenger treatment and conflict resolution at Indian airports. It also raises questions about the protocols for reporting such incidents when victims are under time pressure to catch flights. The Delhi Police's final action will depend on the submission of a formal complaint by the aggrieved passenger.
