He Punched Me, I Fell Down”: SpiceJet Staffer Recounts Assault by Army Officer
In a shocking and deeply disturbing incident that has sparked national outrage, a SpiceJet ground staffer, Mudasir Ahmad, has come forward with his account of being brutally assaulted by a senior Army officer at Srinagar Airport on July 26.
What Happened at Srinagar Airport
According to Ahmad, the altercation began over a dispute regarding excess cabin baggage. When the SpiceJet team informed the passenger — a senior army officer — about the additional charges, things took a violent turn.
“He hit me on my face with baggage. He slapped me and started hitting me. He used his fists and feet to hit me... At the end, he punched me and I fell down,” Ahmad told ANI.
The attack left four airline employees injured, with Ahmad suffering a fractured jaw and spine.
Caught on Camera
The incident came to public attention after a video went viral, showing the officer assaulting the airline staff using a steel signboard stand. The footage has led to widespread condemnation and calls for accountability, both from within civil society and the aviation industry.
Safety at Stake
While arguments at airports over baggage fees are not uncommon, the level of violence in this case has shocked the nation. The incident raises serious concerns about passenger aggression, employee safety, and the limits of authority — even in uniform.
Industry insiders say that this incident is not just about one violent altercation, but part of a growing pattern of airline staff facing abuse and assault.
What's Next?
Authorities have launched an investigation, and the Army has promised to look into the matter seriously. As of now, public and media pressure is mounting for strict legal action against the officer involved.
The Human Cost
Ahmad’s case is a painful reminder that airline employees — often the first point of contact for frustrated or impatient passengers — deserve protection and dignity at work.
“We were just doing our job. I never imagined something like this would happen,” Ahmad added.