Delhi Police confirmed that Captain Virender Sejwal, identified as the accused, was taken into custody following a detailed investigation that included the examination of CCTV footage and the recording of witness statements. Additional Commissioner of Police (IGI) Vichitra Veer said the arrest was made after investigators gathered sufficient material evidence and questioned the pilot.
According to police officials, the altercation took place near the staff entry gate at Terminal 1. The passenger, Ankit Dewan, was travelling with his family, including young children, and carrying luggage when he was reportedly directed by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel to use the staff entry gate. Captain Sejwal, who was “deadheading” to Bengaluru to operate another flight, was also using the same access point.
Investigators said a dispute broke out when Dewan questioned airline crew members who moved ahead in the queue. What began as a verbal argument allegedly escalated into a physical confrontation, during which the pilot is accused of assaulting the passenger. CISF personnel intervened to separate the two men and restore order.
At the airport, Dewan was asked whether he wished to lodge a formal police complaint. He declined at the time, submitting a written refusal, and continued his journey with his family. The pilot also proceeded with his travel as scheduled.
The matter gained momentum after Dewan later posted details of the incident on social media, alleging that he was beaten, left bleeding, and required medical attention. He also said the incident traumatised his young daughter. The posts sparked widespread criticism and drew the attention of the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Taking serious cognisance of the allegations, the ministry ordered a probe and directed Air India Express to ground the pilot with immediate effect. Reports were sought from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the CISF to examine both the incident and the circumstances that led to it.
Air India Express, in an official statement, condemned the alleged conduct and confirmed that the pilot had been removed from flying duties pending the outcome of the inquiry. The airline said appropriate disciplinary action would be initiated based on the findings of the investigation.
Delhi Police said the investigation is ongoing, with authorities reviewing CCTV footage, witness testimonies, and medical records. Officials are also assessing airport crowd management protocols and examining why the situation was not defused before it escalated.
The case has raised broader questions about passenger safety, crew conduct, and crowd control at busy airport terminals, underscoring the need for strict adherence to security procedures and swift conflict resolution in high-pressure travel environments.
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