IndiGo, India’s top low-cost airline, is under intense scrutiny after a passenger accused its cabin crew of mishandling an attempted theft onboard flight 6E 17. The incident, which has sparked widespread controversy, was highlighted on social media by Trisha Shetty, a Mumbai-based lawyer, activist, and TEDx speaker. Shetty’s viral posts have led to a formal complaint being filed with the Civil Aviation Ministry, prompting an official investigation.
Alleged Theft Incident and Crew Inaction
The incident reportedly took place while Shetty’s mother was asleep on the flight. According to Shetty’s account, a fellow passenger attempted to steal her mother’s handbag from the overhead compartment, only to be interrupted when the mother awoke. Shetty claims the thief had already rummaged through the bag and attempted to replace it before being noticed. Other passengers reportedly witnessed the suspect going through their belongings as well, adding weight to Shetty’s accusations.
Shetty criticized the IndiGo crew for failing to act appropriately in response to the theft attempt. Instead of addressing the issue, Shetty alleges that the crew made excuses for the alleged thief and discouraged her mother from filing a complaint. In a series of social media posts, Shetty described how the crew even demanded “proof” of the theft and suggested that passengers should show empathy for the suspect, claiming the thief “couldn’t understand anything.”
IndiGo’s Response and Public Outcry
IndiGo responded to the controversy by acknowledging Shetty’s concerns but claiming that the crew acted promptly to assist her mother. According to the airline, the crew asked Shetty’s mother to verify her belongings and found nothing missing. They further stated that Shetty’s mother chose not to pursue the matter immediately due to a connecting flight, but that security personnel would assist her upon arrival.
However, Shetty vehemently disputed IndiGo’s version of events. In her subsequent posts, she accused the airline of victim-blaming, making excuses for the alleged thief, and discouraging passengers from reporting the crime. She also highlighted the emotional distress caused by the incident, which saw another passenger in tears after the theft attempt. The airline only changed her seat after the passenger complained.
Civil Aviation Ministry Investigates
In response to Shetty’s allegations, a formal complaint was filed with the Civil Aviation Ministry, which is now investigating IndiGo’s actions. The incident has raised significant concerns regarding passenger safety and the airline’s in-flight security protocols. This controversy comes amid growing public scrutiny of the airline industry, which has been grappling with similar issues related to passenger rights and safety.
Despite the backlash, IndiGo’s parent company, InterGlobe Aviation Ltd., saw its stock rise by 2.91% to ₹4,478.50, indicating minimal immediate impact on the airline’s market performance. However, the long-term implications for IndiGo’s brand reputation and customer trust remain uncertain, with many questioning the airline’s commitment to ensuring passenger safety.
