ARMY OFFICER HITS SPICEJET STAFF OVER BAGGAGE ISSUE AT SRINAGAR AIRPORT

A shocking incident took place at the Srinagar International Airport recently, where an Indian Army officer allegedly assaulted SpiceJet staff over an argument regarding excess baggage charges. The video of the incident quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention and sparking debate over the behavior of uniformed personnel in public places.

What Happened?

According to airport sources and eyewitnesses, the incident occurred when the army officer, who was traveling on official duty, arrived at the SpiceJet counter to check in for his flight. The conflict reportedly began when the airline staff asked him to pay charges for excess baggage. SpiceJet, like other airlines, has a limit on how much luggage a passenger can carry for free. Any extra baggage beyond the allowed limit attracts a fee.

The officer reportedly refused to pay the extra charge, stating that he was traveling for official military duty and should be exempt from such charges. However, the airline staff maintained their policy and informed him that all passengers, regardless of their profession, must follow airline rules.

Argument Turns Violent

The disagreement quickly turned heated. In the viral video, the army officer can be seen arguing loudly with the SpiceJet employees. Suddenly, he pushes one of the staff members and hits another. The incident shocked passengers and other staff present at the scene.

Airport security personnel rushed to the spot and tried to control the situation. The airline staff, visibly shaken, demanded action against the officer. The situation calmed down only after other security personnel and senior airport officials intervened.

Official Statements

SpiceJet released a statement confirming the incident. The airline said, “One of our ground staff members at Srinagar Airport was physically assaulted by an individual claiming to be from the Indian Army over excess baggage charges. We are cooperating with the authorities and hope action is taken.”

Meanwhile, the Indian Army also responded to the situation. A senior army spokesperson stated, “We are aware of the video and the incident. Such behavior is not acceptable, and we will investigate the matter. If any army personnel is found guilty of misconduct, strict action will be taken as per military rules.”

Public Reactions

The video of the incident quickly spread on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Many people expressed shock and anger over the officer’s behavior. Some users criticized him for setting a bad example while wearing the uniform, which stands for discipline and honor. Others, however, defended him, claiming that sometimes airline staff behave rudely with passengers, including soldiers.

The majority of social media users demanded a fair investigation and appropriate punishment for the guilty party, whether it is the officer or the staff.

Rules and Policies

According to aviation rules in India, all passengers, including those in the armed forces, must adhere to the baggage policy of the airline they are flying with. Some airlines provide discounts or exemptions for military personnel, but that usually requires prior arrangements or approvals. In this case, SpiceJet stated that no such prior arrangement was made for free excess baggage.

Legal and Disciplinary Action

As of now, no FIR has been officially registered, but airport authorities have filed an incident report. SpiceJet is expected to formally file a complaint. If proven guilty, the army officer could face both legal action and disciplinary punishment under the Army Act.

Physical assault in a public place, especially in a secure zone like an airport, is a serious offense. It also raises concerns about the safety of airline staff and the behavior expected from those serving in uniformed services.