Unethical Checking and Lapses at Indian Airports Raise Global Concerns: Urgent Reforms Needed

Unethical Checking and Lapses at Indian Airports Raise Global Concerns: Urgent Reforms Needed

Reporting by Journo K.V.R. Prasad, M.J.M.C.

New Delhi, 30 January 2025 – Recent incidents of unethical practices and security lapses at Indian airports have sparked outrage among passengers, raising serious questions about the efficiency, integrity, and global reputation of India’s aviation sector. Travelers have reported instances of harassment, theft, and improper behavior by security personnel, leading to calls for stricter oversight, accountability, and systemic reforms.

Incidents of Unethical Behavior and Security Lapses

1. Harassment During Security Checks:
   • Passengers, particularly women, have reported intrusive and inappropriate behavior during security checks. Unnecessary physical pat-downs, rude behavior, and invasive searches have become common complaints.
   • In a widely publicized incident at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, a female passenger was subjected to an invasive pat-down despite clearing the metal detector. The incident, captured on video, went viral, prompting global condemnation and demands for accountability.
2. Theft and Misplacement of Belongings:
   • Multiple passengers have reported theft and misplacement of valuables during security screenings. Items such as cash, electronics, and jewelry have gone missing after baggage checks.
   • At Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, a passenger alleged that ₹50,000 in cash was stolen from his hand luggage during a security check. An investigation is ongoing, but the incident has further eroded trust in airport security.
3. Lapses in Security Protocols:
   • Serious lapses in security protocols have been reported, raising concerns about passenger safety. In one instance, a passenger at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport was allowed to board a flight without proper identity verification, highlighting gaps in the screening process.

Travelers’ Reactions: Frustration and Fear

• Passengers have expressed frustration and anxiety over these incidents, with many taking to social media to share their experiences. Hashtags like #AirportHarassment and #SecureOurAirports have trended on platforms like Twitter, reflecting widespread discontent.
• Foreign travelers, in particular, have voiced concerns, with some stating that they are reconsidering travel to India due to the hostile and unprofessional behavior of security personnel. A recent survey by Vistarana Info revealed that such incidents are damaging India’s reputation as a tourist-friendly destination.

Authorities’ Response: Promises and Plans

• The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has acknowledged the complaints and assured action against those found guilty of misconduct. A spokesperson stated, “We are committed to ensuring the safety and dignity of all passengers. Strict measures will be taken to address these issues.”
• Airport authorities have announced plans to install additional CCTV cameras in security areas and increase monitoring to prevent theft and unethical behavior. However, critics argue that these measures are insufficient without addressing the root causes of the problem.

Experts Weigh In: Need for Systemic Reforms

• Aviation experts have emphasized the need for better training and sensitization of security personnel. “Security staff must be trained to handle passengers with respect and professionalism. Unethical behavior not only tarnishes India’s global image but also undermines passenger trust,” said an industry analyst.
• Legal experts have urged passengers to file formal complaints and seek legal recourse in cases of harassment or theft. “Airport authorities have a duty to ensure passenger safety and well-being. Any breach of this duty must be addressed promptly,” said a senior lawyer.

What’s Next? Calls for Urgent Action

1. Review of Security Protocols:
   The Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced a comprehensive review of security protocols and staff training programs at all major airports. This includes revisiting standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure they align with global best practices.
2. Replacement of CISF with Retired Military Personnel:
   Many stakeholders have called for the replacement of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with retired Navy, Air Force, and Army personnel. Advocates argue that military veterans bring discipline, professionalism, and a customer-centric approach to airport security.
3. Global Benchmarking:
   Experts suggest that India’s airports adopt global standards for passenger screening, similar to those in countries like Singapore, Japan, and Germany, where security checks are efficient, respectful, and minimally intrusive.
4. Passenger Awareness Campaigns:
   Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, report incidents of misconduct, and ensure their belongings are securely packed and tagged during security checks. Authorities are also encouraged to launch awareness campaigns to educate passengers about their rights and responsibilities.

A Call for Change: Building a Better Future

The recurring incidents of unethical behavior and security lapses at Indian airports highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms. As India aims to become a global aviation hub, addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring a safe, secure, and respectful environment for all travelers. The time has come for bold action, transparency, and accountability to restore trust in India’s airports and uphold the country’s reputation on the global stage.