A senior Indian Army officer is under investigation after allegedly attacking SpiceJet staff in a violent confrontation at Srinagar airport over excess cabin baggage fees, leaving four employees injured—one with a spinal fracture and another with severe jaw trauma.
The incident erupted when the officer reportedly refused to pay for carrying 16 kilograms of hand luggage, more than double the airline’s 7kg allowance. Witnesses and CCTV footage show the officer lashing out physically, using fists, kicks, and even a metal queue stand during the attack.
One staff member collapsed and was still beaten while unconscious, while another suffered heavy facial bleeding while attempting to help his colleague. All four victims were hospitalized and are currently receiving medical care.
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) intervened promptly to restrain the officer, and a formal police case has been filed by Budgam authorities. SpiceJet has handed over CCTV evidence and video recordings of the assault and has initiated the process to add the officer to its no-fly list. The airline has also reported the matter to the Civil Aviation Ministry.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is assessing whether the incident qualifies as a Level 2 (physical abuse) or Level 3 (life-threatening) offence under aviation rules, which could lead to a flight ban of six months to over two years.
SpiceJet condemned the violence and vowed to take all legal and regulatory actions available. The Army, for its part, confirmed it is fully cooperating with civil authorities and said it is monitoring the case closely.
A video circulating on social media shows the officer charging at employees with a metal queue stand before being overpowered by CISF personnel. Another angle reportedly shows an injured staff member being carried out on a stretcher.
