Srinagar – India: A violent incident occurred at the Srinagar Airport on July 26, when an officer of the Indian army attacked a SpiceJet employee over excessive cabin baggage charges. Four airline staff were seriously injured in the shocking incident. The airline, along with civil authorities, launched an investigation.
SpiceJet released a statement stating that the unidentified passenger was traveling with two cabin bags weighing 16kg, which is significantly more than the 7 kg limit set by the airline. The passenger was told at the boarding gates of the flight SG-386 from Singapore to Delhi that he had to pay extra for his baggage. He refused to do so and tried to get through the security procedures to the aerobridge.
When the ground staff of the airline intervened, things escalated. According to reports, the passenger became aggressive and assaulted four employees by punching and kicking them. He also used a queue stand, inflicting serious injuries. SpiceJet revealed in an official statement that one staff member suffered a fractured spine, and another sustained a jaw injury, which resulted in severe bleeding around the mouth and nose. The passenger then continued to attack the unconscious victim after a third member of staff collapsed.
The Central Industrial Security Force, responsible for airport security management, intervened quickly to calm the situation. The CISF ensured that the other passengers were safe, and minimal disruption was caused to flight operations.
The video, which was widely circulated on social networks, shows the disturbing details of the confrontation. It shows the passenger repeatedly hitting the staff and charging them with an object. In response to the video, the CISF released a press release assuring that all necessary actions had been taken. The officer had also been detained and subdued on-site.
SpiceJet filed a First Information Report with the local police and provided CCTV footage of the attack. SpiceJet has begun adding the passenger’s name to its “no-fly” list. It has also notified the Civil Aviation Ministry and requested that they take action to protect its employees. SpiceJet condemns violent acts against employees, and it will take this issue to the fullest extent of the law and regulation.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), this incident falls under their unruly passengers regulations. These rules prescribe punishments for behavior that is physically or life-threatening. The severity of his actions could result in a ban on flying for two years, or even longer, depending on what the investigators find.
The Indian Army confirmed that it was aware of the incident and expressed its support for an ongoing civil investigation. An official spokesperson stated that the Indian Army “takes such incidents seriously” and is committed to ensuring accountability in its ranks.
SpiceJet is faced with the challenge of ensuring justice for its employees, while also rebuilding confidence in them to be able to work safely. SpiceJet reiterated that it is committed to the safety of all employees and passengers.
