SpiceJet woman employee held for ‘slapping’ CISF ASI at Jaipur airport; airline alleges sexual harassment

Police said they were investigating claims made by both sides.

The incident took place around 4.30 am at one of the airport entrances when CISF Assistant Sub Inspector Giriraj Prasad stopped the SpiceJet employee from entering without frisking, airport officials said. She was asked to undergo screening, but there were no female CISF personnel present at the spot, leading to an argument.

Jaipur airport SHO Ram Lal said that ASI Prasad then called a female colleague for the security check, but the argument escalated and the SpiceJet employee slapped him.

In a video of the incident, the airline employee is seen stepping towards the CISF ASI during the argument and slapping him before she is led away by other airport staff.

Later, a case was registered at the Airport Police Station following a complaint from the CISF.

DCP Kavendra Singh said, “The woman has been arrested and her statement is being taken. The woman has also lodged a complaint. We are verifying the facts following which appropriate action will be taken.”

In a statement, SpiceJet said, “Today, an unfortunate incident occurred at Jaipur Airport involving a SpiceJet female security staff member and a male CISF personnel.”

“While escorting a catering vehicle at the steel gate, our female security staff member, who had a valid airport entry pass issued by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), India’s civil aviation security regulator, was subjected to inappropriate and unacceptable language by the CISF personnel, including asking her to come and meet him after his duty hours at his home,” it said.

“SpiceJet is taking immediate legal action in this serious case of sexual harassment against its female employee and has approached the local police. We stand firmly by our employee and are committed to providing her with full support.”

CISF Commandant Narpat Singh denied the SpiceJet claims. “There was no inappropriate behavior by the officer. He was doing his work. We have registered a complaint against the accused for slapping an on-duty official and the rest of the matter will be dealt with as per norms,” he told The Indian Express.

Charan Singh, Coordination In-charge, Airport Authority of India, Jaipur, said the matter is under investigation.

— With PTI inputs