Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday strongly condemned the assault on four SpiceJet employees at Srinagar International Airport, allegedly carried out by a senior Army officer last week. They demanded strict action and accountability to prevent such incidents from being repeated.
The incident, which occurred on July 26, involved a violent altercation between the officer and the SpiceJet ground staff when he was asked to pay for excess cabin baggage before boarding a flight to Delhi. According to the airline, the officer brutally attacked staff members at the boarding gate, leaving one with a spinal fracture and others with serious injuries.
🔻 NC and PDP React Strongly
Sarah Hayat Shah, spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC), condemned the attack, calling it “gundagardi” (hooliganism).
“This incident took place at Srinagar Airport, where an Army officer was seen brutally assaulting SpiceJet staff member(s), leaving him with serious injuries. It is highly condemnable and shameful. The officer must be held accountable,” she said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Iltija Mufti, PDP leader and daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, also lashed out at the alleged attacker and demanded exemplary punishment.
“How dare this Army officer launch a murderous assault on employees at Srinagar airport simply for refusing excess cabin luggage? His demonic rage left one of the victims with a spinal fracture. @ChinarcorpsIA @adgpi — Please take immediate action to set an example,” she posted on X.
🔻 SpiceJet’s Statement and Legal Action
In its official statement issued on Sunday, SpiceJet confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed with the local police, and the airline has begun the process of placing the officer on India’s no-fly list, as per civil aviation rules.
The airline said:
“The assault took place after the passenger was told to pay for the extra cabin baggage. Four employees were attacked. One fainted on the floor but continued to be kicked and hit even while unconscious. One suffered a spinal fracture; another had facial injuries after being kicked in the jaw.”
SpiceJet also stated that CCTV footage of the incident has been handed over to authorities.
“We strongly condemn any act of violence against our employees and will pursue the matter to its fullest legal and regulatory conclusion,” the airline said.
🔻 Public Outrage and Calls for Justice
The shocking nature of the attack has sparked widespread outrage across social media and political circles, with many urging the Army leadership and Ministry of Defence to take swift disciplinary action and not allow the uniform to shield unacceptable behavior.
While the identity of the officer has not been officially disclosed, pressure is mounting on the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps and Defence Ministry to issue a public response and update on the disciplinary measures being taken.
🔚 Conclusion:
The assault has not only raised questions about aviation security and passenger behavior but also placed a spotlight on the need for equal accountability—regardless of position or profession. Political leaders, civil society, and the airline industry are now closely watching the developments, hoping for a transparent and just resolution.
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