IndiGo Faces Harassment Allegations from BJP Leader After Mumbai Airport Clash

December 23, 2025 at 08:40 AM•3 min read

IndiGo is investigating a viral harassment allegation by BJP Leader Nazia Elahi Khan at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, highlighting

Key Points

1BJP Leader Nazia Elahi Khan alleged harassment by IndiGo staff on December 22, 2025, at Mumbai Airport (CSMIA).
2The incident was captured in a viral video, leading to Khan challenging IndiGo to permanently blacklist her.
3IndiGo, which holds a 65.2% domestic market share, is investigating the matter amid rising DGCA passenger grievances.
4The dispute spotlights broader issues of airline staff conduct and passenger rights in India's high-growth aviation sector.

BJP Minority Leader Nazia Elahi Khan publicly accused IndiGo staff of harassment. The incident occurred on December 22, 2025, at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). Khan was boarding flight 6E-2074 to Lucknow. She claimed the staff deliberately targeted her over seating. A video of a heated tarmac argument went viral on social media. Khan later challenged IndiGo to blacklist her permanently.

Viral Tarmac Confrontation

Khan alleged the mistreatment began at the check-in counter. It continued until the final boarding area. She named specific employees, accusing them of coordinating the harassment. Khan suggested the actions were linked to her political identity. She also questioned IndiGo's hiring practices in her posts. The widely circulated video shows Khan arguing with ground staff. She is seen insisting on her right to board the flight. The airline responded via social media. IndiGo stated it prioritizes passenger safety and security. Its airport team is reaching out to Khan for details.

Airline and Regulatory Context

This incident is not Khan's first clash with IndiGo. She made similar accusations in June 2025 at Delhi Airport. The recurring disputes spotlight challenges in India's booming aviation sector. IndiGo is the dominant domestic carrier. It commands a market share of over 60%. DGCA data from July 2025 shows its market share was 65.2%. The airline operates a fleet of over 350 aircraft. This large scale brings persistent scrutiny from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Broader Industry Impact

The DGCA regularly fines airlines for operational issues. These include chronic delays and overbooking practices. Passenger grievances are a growing concern. Aviation observers note a 20% year-on-year surge in total passenger disputes, according to the source. However, complaints specifically about Staff Behaviour remain low. DGCA data from July 2025 reported that only 2.2% of all passenger complaints concerned staff conduct. Most complaints relate to flight problems and refunds.

This high-profile case highlights the need for enhanced staff training. It also raises questions about equitable service delivery. The political dimension, with a prominent BJP leader involved, amplifies the debate. It places pressure on IndiGo to conduct a swift, transparent investigation. The outcome will influence public trust. It may also lead to changes in airline employee conduct protocols. Passengers are increasingly vocal about their rights. They use social media to demand accountability. This trend requires airlines to manage public relations carefully. Read more commercial aviation news for updates on regulatory action. Formal police complaints have not been reported in this case. The Mumbai Airport operator has not issued a statement. The focus remains on routine operations during the busy holiday travel season.