Why Did IndiGo Ban a Passenger After an Incident on a Mumbai-Kolkata Flight?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- IndiGo has a zero-tolerance policy for unruly behaviour.
- The incident highlights the need for safety measures on flights.
- Unruly behaviour can lead to serious legal consequences.
- Airlines must balance passenger rights with safety protocols.
- Video evidence can play a crucial role in addressing incidents.
New Delhi, Aug 2 (NationPress) On Saturday, IndiGo took decisive action by banning a passenger from its flights following an incident where he slapped a co-traveller during a Mumbai-Kolkata journey. The event unfolded on flight 6E138 on Friday, and upon landing in Kolkata, the individual was handed over to airport security and was classified as unruly.
In a statement shared on X on Saturday, IndiGo confirmed that the incident had been reported to the appropriate authorities following a comprehensive review.
The airline emphasized that the ban reflects its strong stance against unruly behaviour on its aircraft. However, the duration of the ban remains unspecified.
"In accordance with our commitment to combat such unruly behaviour onboard flights, the individual has been prohibited from flying on any IndiGo flights, in adherence to regulatory guidelines," the airline stated.
A video of the unsettling incident, which went viral on social media on Friday, depicted a passenger sitting down suddenly slapping another passenger who was in the aisle. Following the slap, the victim was seen in tears and was subsequently moved to a different seat.
In the footage, a cabin crew member can be heard advising the seated passenger to "don’t do that," while another bystander questioned the assailant's right to strike anyone. Additionally, another voice in the background suggested that the assaulted individual was experiencing a panic attack.
Aishwarya Sagar, Divisional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Airport Division), stated that both individuals were apprehended under Section 170 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to avert a serious offence, and under Section 120, which permits binding offenders to court if they threaten public peace.
Unruly behaviour during flights can result in a flying ban ranging from three months to two years, contingent upon the severity of the incident.