India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is facing serious allegations after a Bengaluru-based employee filed a First Information Report (FIR) accusing three senior colleagues of caste-based verbal abuse and workplace harassment.
The complaint, which has now been formally registered by Gurugram police, has sparked widespread concern over workplace discrimination and corporate accountability in India’s aviation sector.
The Complainant: A Bengaluru-Based Employee from a Scheduled Caste
The complainant, Sharan A, a 35-year-old IndiGo employee from Bengaluru, belongs to the Adi Dravida community, a Scheduled Caste recognized under the Indian Constitution.
According to the FIR, Sharan alleges that he was subjected to derogatory caste-based remarks, verbal abuse, and targeted harassment by three senior officials during a company meeting held on April 28, 2025, at IndiGo’s corporate office in Gurugram, Haryana.
Details of the Complaint Against IndiGo: Verbal Abuse and Systemic Harassment
Sharan claims that during the meeting, the accused—Tapas Dey, Manish Sahni, and Captain Rahul Patil—made humiliating remarks such as, “You are not fit to fly an aircraft, go back and stitch slippers,” and “You are not even worthy to lick my shoe”.
He further alleges that this was not an isolated incident. The FIR outlines a pattern of discrimination, including:
- Issuance of unjustified warning letters
- Salary deductions without explanation
- Curtailment of sick leave
- Cancellation of staff travel and ACM privileges
- Pressure to resign from his position
Sharan also stated that he had reported the matter to IndiGo’s CEO and Ethics Committee, but received no response.
After waiting for an apology that never came, he filed a Zero FIR in Bengaluru, which was later transferred to DLF Phase-1 police station in Gurugram, where the incident occurred.
Legal Action Against IndiGo: FIR Registered Under SC/ST Act and IPC
The FIR includes charges under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
It also invokes sections of the Indian Penal Code related to criminal intimidation, intentional insult, and use of criminal force.
Gurugram police have confirmed that a formal investigation is underway, and action will be taken based on the findings.
IndiGo’s Response: Denial and Reaffirmation of Zero-Tolerance Policy
In response to the allegations, IndiGo issued a statement strongly refuting the claims.
A company spokesperson said, “IndiGo upholds a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination, harassment, or bias and remains firmly committed to being an inclusive and respectful workplace.”
The airline stated that it would fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies during the investigation.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to the values of fairness, integrity, and accountability.
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