Delhi Airport Brawl: Air India Express Pilot Accused of Assault, Passenger Suffers Nasal Fracture

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A passenger at the Delhi airport has come forward with allegations of being physically assaulted by an off-duty Air India Express pilot. Ankit Dewan, the victim, claims to have suffered a nasal fracture and is now seeking justice. Dewan alleges that the pilot, Virender Sejwal, verbally abused him before the altercation began. According to Dewan's account, the incident occurred on December 19 at the security area of Terminal 1. Dewan had objected to staff members cutting the queue, which led to a heated exchange with Sejwal. Dewan's wife, who had cleared security, overheard Sejwal threatening to hit Dewan, but CISF personnel failed to intervene. The situation escalated into a physical altercation, leaving Dewan with a displaced nasal bone fracture. Dewan's seven-year-old daughter witnessed the incident, which has left her traumatized. Dewan has filed a complaint with the Delhi Police, and an FIR has been registered under sections 115, 126, and 351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Air India Express has removed Sejwal from official duties pending an internal investigation. The airline has also issued a statement distancing itself from the incident, claiming that Sejwal was not on flight duty and that the altercation was a personal matter between two passengers. However, Dewan's lawyer disputes this, claiming that the pilot's actions were a clear breach of professional conduct. The Delhi Police will examine the matter based on the complaint and available evidence, including CCTV footage from the terminal. Sejwal's lawyer has released a statement denying the allegations, claiming that Dewan selectively presented facts to create a false narrative. However, the investigation is ongoing, and the outcome remains uncertain. Dewan's case highlights the need for prompt action in cases of airport violence and the importance of ensuring passenger safety.