Indian National Faces Serious Charges After Alleged Mid-Air Molestation on Singapore Airlines Flight
A 36-year-old Indian national has been formally charged with molesting and harassing a flight attendant during a Singapore Airlines flight last month, in an incident that has drawn significant legal attention. Akash Tiwari was charged on Tuesday for the alleged offence, which authorities say occurred on February 9 while the aircraft was in mid-air.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to police reports, the incident began when the flight attendant was serving Tiwari near his seat. It is alleged that he used criminal force by making bodily contact with the area around her buttocks while she was performing her duties. The victim immediately told him to stop and then proceeded to the galley area to prepare for the aircraft's landing.
The situation reportedly escalated when Tiwari allegedly followed the attendant to the galley, cornering her in the confined space and continuing to pursue her despite her clear objections. This caused significant distress to the victim, who shouted at him before leaving the area. However, Tiwari allegedly followed her again into the aisle before finally returning to his seat only after she reported the matter to her supervisor.
Legal Proceedings and Protective Measures
Police were alerted to the incident on the same day it occurred. Officers from the Airport Police Division conducted thorough follow-up investigations and arrested Tiwari upon the aircraft's arrival at Singapore's Changi Airport. In addition to the molestation charges, Tiwari is also accused of using threatening behavior during the encounter with the flight attendant.
A gag order has been imposed to protect the identity of the air stewardess involved in the case. Channel NewsAsia, which reported on the incident, stated that it is not disclosing further details about the specific flight to prevent the victim from being identified by colleagues.
Court Appearance and Potential Penalties
When asked in court about the charges, Akash Tiwari stated that he was not guilty. However, if convicted of molestation, he faces severe penalties under Singapore law, including:
- Up to three years in jail
- Substantial fines
- Caning as a potential punishment
- Any combination of these penalties
For the additional charges of threatening behavior and causing distress, Tiwari could face:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine of up to S$5,000 (approximately US$3,900)
- Both jail time and financial penalties
The case highlights the serious consequences of such behavior on commercial flights and underscores Singapore's strict approach to maintaining safety and respect for airline staff. The legal proceedings are expected to continue as authorities pursue justice in this disturbing mid-air incident.
