A passenger travelling on a SpiceJet flight has alleged that he was physically assaulted by an off-duty Air India Express pilot at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, resulting in a serious facial injury. The incident reportedly followed a disagreement at a security checkpoint, and medical examination later confirmed that the passenger suffered a displaced fracture of his left nasal bone.
The complainant, Ankit Dewan, said he has formally approached the Delhi Police seeking legal action against the pilot, identified as Captain Virender Sejwal of Air India Express. Dewan stated that he learnt through media reports that a police case had been registered in connection with the incident. He added that he is currently focused on recovering from his injuries while pursuing the matter through legal channels.
According to Dewan, the alleged assault took place on December 19 near the security screening area at Terminal 1 of the airport. He claimed the altercation began after he objected to certain individuals allegedly bypassing the queue at the checkpoint. Dewan alleged that the off-duty pilot first verbally abused him and then physically attacked him, causing visible bleeding and injuries, all in the presence of his seven-year-old daughter.
Sharing details of his medical condition, Dewan said that a CT scan conducted after the incident confirmed a displaced fracture of the left nasal bone. He described the experience as traumatic and said he hopes that the authorities will take appropriate action to ensure accountability and justice.
The Delhi Police confirmed on Monday that a First Information Report has been registered in the case based on a complaint Dewan sent via email. The FIR has been filed under Sections 115, 126 and 351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which relate to voluntarily causing hurt, wrongful restraint and criminal force.
Police officials clarified that they initially became aware of the incident after Dewan posted about it on social media, as no formal complaint had been lodged at the time. Following receipt of the written complaint, they proceeded to register the case and begin a detailed investigation.
Air India Express acknowledged the incident and said it involved one of its pilots who was travelling as a passenger on another airline at the time. The airline stated that the pilot has been removed from flying duties with immediate effect while an internal inquiry is conducted.
Investigators have said they will examine all available evidence, including CCTV footage from the airport terminal, as part of the probe. The police added that further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation and the evidence collected.
