A Bengaluru-based employee of low-cost airline IndiGo has filed a police complaint against three of his senior colleagues, alleging that they subjected him to caste-based abuse during a company meeting. Following the complaint, an FIR has been registered in Gurugram, and an investigation is underway, according to officials.
The complainant, identified as 35-year-old Sharan A, claimed that during a meeting held on April 28, three IndiGo staff members—Tapas Dey, Manish Sahni, and Captain Rahul Patil—made derogatory remarks against him based on his caste identity. Sharan belongs to the Adi Dravida community, which is recognised as a Scheduled Caste. Sharan initially approached the Bengaluru police, who registered a zero FIR and transferred the case to Gurugram, where the alleged incident occurred. Upon receiving the complaint, the Gurugram police filed a formal FIR at the DLF Phase 1 police station on Sunday.
"An FIR has been registered and a probe is underway. We are verifying the facts and action will be taken as per the law," said Rajesh Kumar, Station House Officer of DLF Phase 1 police station. In his detailed complaint, Sharan alleged that the casteist abuse was not a one-off incident. He claimed to have faced repeated discrimination and harassment at his workplace over time, which included verbal abuse, unjustified salary cuts, curtailment of sick leaves, cancellation of staff travel and ACM (Additional Crew Member) privileges, and the issuance of warning letters without valid grounds. He also alleged that he was pressured to resign from his position.
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“I was insulted publicly with caste-based verbal abuse, threats, and repeated discrimination. This was not the first instance—I’ve been subjected to continuous harassment. Despite informing IndiGo’s CEO and ethics committee about what happened during the April 28 meeting, no action was taken. That is when I decided to approach the police,” Sharan said.
In response to the allegations, IndiGo has categorically denied the claims, calling them "baseless." The airline issued a statement affirming its zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination or harassment. “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. IndiGo strongly refutes these baseless claims and stands by its values of fairness, integrity, and accountability. The airline will extend its support to law enforcement agencies as required,” said a company spokesperson.
The case is currently under investigation by the Gurugram police, who have assured that appropriate action will be taken in accordance with legal procedures.
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