Calicut plane crash: Air India accused of withholding compensation

After the tragic plane crash at Karipur airport in Malappuram, Kerala which killed 19 and injured over a hundred, Air India is making secret moves to avoid providing adequate compensation to the victims of the Karipur plane crash.

The company approached the injured asking them to sign a letter of intent to accept a small amount. It has also promised to pay between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 40 lakh.

Under the terms of the Montreal Convention, the relatives of those injured and killed in the Karipur plane crash can receive up to Rs 20 lakh - 1 crore. However, Air India is currently providing only Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the dead and Rs 2 lakh each to the seriously injured.

The maximum offered is  Rs 40 lakh. Air India has sent a letter asking them to sign and return the consent form if they are willing to do so. The consent form states that no other benefits will be received later.

According to procedures, the airline should hold a hearing on compensation with the participation of the victims. But in the Karipur plane crash, the families of many of the dead are also facing huge financial burden.

Meanwhile, the family of Sharafuddin, who died in the accident, has approached Kerala high court seeking permission to approach the state consumer commission for further compensation. The High Court has sought an explanation from Air India on the plea in the petition.