Bengaluru
A disturbing incident unfolded on an Indigo flight recently when a passenger’s actions led to his arrest after allegedly harassing a flight attendant and misbehaving with other female cabin crew members. The incident took place on an August 18 flight from Male, Maldives to Bangalore, India. The accused, a 51-year-old resident of the Maldives named Akram Ahmed, reportedly molested an air hostess who was serving him on flight number 6E 1128. According to accounts, Ahmed had requested a glass of beer and cashew nuts while seated in seat number 38. However, his demeanor took a troubling turn as he began making inappropriate comments to the attendant. I have been looking for a girl like you for the last 51 years, he remarked, unsettlingly. His demeanor grew even more offensive as he brazenly inquired about the cost of certain services and when he could receive them for free. In a written complaint, it was alleged that he handed over a $100 bill but demanded only $10 as change, indicating that the remaining $90 was meant for the attendant. The pilot promptly reported the incident upon landing at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bangalore. Law enforcement was waiting to apprehend Ahmed, who was then taken into custody. He has been charged under IPC Sections 354, which pertains to assault on a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty, and 409, related to words, gestures, or actions intended to insult a woman’s modesty. The incident highlights the importance of taking swift and appropriate action against such behavior to ensure the safety and dignity of airline staff. Airlines and authorities are stepping up efforts to prevent harassment and create a secure environment for both passengers and crew members.
