Air India Express Pilot Removed After Alleged Assault at Delhi Airport
Image Source: Internet
A disturbing incident unfolded at Delhi's Terminal 1 on Friday when a passenger, Ankit Dewan, was allegedly physically assaulted by an off-duty Air India Express pilot, Virender Sejwal, over a dispute at the security checkpoint. Dewan, who was traveling with his family, including a 4-month-old baby, claimed that Sejwal and other staff members were cutting the security queue, sparking an altercation. Dewan, who shared his account on X, alleged that Sejwal confronted him after being called out for cutting the line, and later physically assaulted him, leaving him injured. Dewan's 7-year-old daughter was traumatized by the incident, and he expressed concern about the pilot's ability to fly. Air India Express has since removed Sejwal from his official duties and is taking appropriate action. The airline has condemned the pilot's behavior and expressed empathy for the distress caused to Dewan and his family. The incident has raised questions about airport management, with Dewan pointing out that combining staff entry with passenger lanes can create chaos at sensitive security areas. He has also questioned why he was forced to sign a statement promising not to pursue the matter further, citing concerns about missing his flight and losing significant holiday bookings. Air India Express has acknowledged the incident and has assured that the necessary action is being taken. The airline's response comes after PTI reported that Sejwal later took an IndiGo flight to Bengaluru from Delhi airport's Terminal 1.
