In a disturbing incident at Delhi airport, an off-duty Air India Express pilot, Captain Virender Sejwal, was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly assaulting a passenger on December 19. The incident reportedly occurred in front of the passenger’s seven-year-old daughter, leaving her visibly traumatised.

The assault came to light after the victim, Ankit Dewan, shared a photo on social media showing facial injuries sustained during the incident. Dewan stated that the confrontation began when he was directed to use a security check area typically reserved for staff, as he was traveling with his four-month-old baby. Dewan alleged that airport staff, including Sejwal, bypassed the queue, and when he pointed this out, Sejwal allegedly reacted aggressively, questioning Dewan’s ability to read the signs.

Investigation and Arrest

Following Dewan’s complaint, police launched an inquiry. CCTV footage from the airport was collected, and statements were recorded from airport security personnel who intervened during the incident. Medical examination confirmed that Dewan sustained a nasal fracture along with bruises and other injuries. After interrogation and review of the evidence, Captain Sejwal was formally arrested.

Deputy Police Commissioner Vichitra Veer confirmed that Dewan’s statement had been recorded and that all necessary evidence was collected from airport authorities and security agencies before the arrest.

Charges and Legal Action

Sejwal has been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS):

• Section 115 – voluntarily causing hurt
• Section 126 – wrongful restraint
• Section 351 – criminal intimidation

Air India Express has suspended Sejwal following the incident, as police noted that two cross-complaints were filed in the matter. In his complaint, Sejwal alleged that Dewan had initiated the altercation using abusive, degrading, and threatening language and claimed that he too sustained injuries during the confrontation.

Public and Organizational Response

The incident has drawn widespread attention due to the involvement of an airline pilot and the fact that a child witnessed the assault. Air India Express has stated that it takes such matters seriously and is cooperating fully with the investigation. Airport authorities have also reviewed security procedures to ensure such incidents do not recur.

Conclusion

The arrest of Captain Virender Sejwal underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating incidents of violence, even involving off-duty personnel. The case continues to be investigated, with authorities examining all evidence, including CCTV footage, medical reports, and witness statements, to determine the exact sequence of events. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining order and professionalism in public spaces such as airports, where confrontations can escalate rapidly and have long-lasting emotional effects on witnesses, particularly children.