A controversy has erupted at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport following allegations of assault against a pilot employed with Air India Express. The incident, which occurred during the boarding process of a flight, came into public focus after a passenger accused the pilot of physically attacking him following an argument.
According to the passenger, identified as Ankit Dewan, the incident took place near the security check-in area. Dewan alleged that the pilot attempted to bypass the queue, leading to a verbal altercation. He claimed that when he objected, the argument escalated and the pilot physically assaulted him, causing visible injuries to his face. Photographs showing Dewan with a bloodied nose later circulated on social media, drawing widespread attention and outrage.
Dewan further alleged that the altercation continued even after security personnel intervened, and that he felt intimidated by the pilot’s conduct. He maintained that the incident was unprovoked and said that no passenger should be subjected to such behaviour, irrespective of who the accused person is or what position they hold.
In response, the pilot, Captain Virender Sejwal, issued a statement through his legal representatives rejecting the assault allegations. He stated that he was not on duty at the time and was travelling as a regular passenger. According to his version, the confrontation began when he was verbally abused and threatened by Dewan at the security queue. The pilot claimed that he did not initiate any physical violence and that he himself sustained injuries during the scuffle.
The pilot’s statement also said that Central Industrial Security Force personnel intervened promptly and brought the situation under control. It was claimed that both parties later agreed not to pursue any legal action and signed a written understanding in the presence of security officials. The pilot’s side accused the passenger of later retracting from that agreement and presenting a one-sided narrative on social media.
Following the incident and the circulation of images online, Air India Express removed the pilot from flying duties pending further investigation. The airline stated that it is taking the matter seriously and is cooperating fully with authorities. The civil aviation authorities have also ordered an inquiry to ascertain the sequence of events and determine accountability.
The case has triggered a broader discussion on passenger safety, professional conduct by airline staff even when off duty, and the handling of disputes at busy airports. Investigations are ongoing, and officials have said further action will depend on the findings of the inquiry.