Trainee IndiGo pilot alleges caste-based abuse by colleagues; FIR registered under SC/ST act

A trainee pilot at IndiGo Airlines, Sharan Kumar, has accused three senior colleagues of caste-based abuse and workplace harassment, triggering a police investigation under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

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In a formal police complaint, Sharan’s father, Ashok Kumar, detailed the alleged offensive remarks made by the accused, Tapas Dey, Manish Sahani, and Rahul Patil, who reportedly told Sharan he was "unfit to fly," and should "go back and stitch slippers," referencing his ancestral caste profession. The complaint also includes disturbing quotes, including one where a colleague allegedly said, “You’re not even worthy to lick my shoe,” and questioned his ability to work as even a watchman.

Sharan further alleged systematic discrimination, including being forced into corrective training without fault, facing unauthorized salary deductions, unjustified sick leave cancellations, loss of staff travel privileges, and receiving a warning letter without evidence. These measures, according to the complaint, were allegedly used to pressure him into resigning.

Despite raising the issue with IndiGo’s CEO and Ethics Committee, no disciplinary action was reportedly taken against the accused. The victim’s family claims that these incidents were not isolated but ongoing and targeted, aimed specifically at humiliating Sharan based on his Scheduled Caste background.

Police have confirmed that an FIR has been registered and a thorough investigation is underway.