Islamophobic remarks by BJP leader against IndiGo staff spark backlash
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Mumbai: A video showing a BJP-affiliated leader confronting airline employees at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has sparked widespread criticism, with rights advocates and social media users accusing her of verbally harassing and religiously profiling Muslim staff members.
The video, shared on social media platform X on Monday by Nazia Elahi Khan, identified as a BJP minority leader, shows her arguing with IndiGo Airlines ground staff on the airport tarmac. Khan claimed she had been mistreated during her travel. Critics, however, say the footage depicts her berating employees who were performing their official duties.
In the clip, Khan is heard making a communal remark referencing Muslim names: “Poora desh pareshan ho gaya hai tum Abdul aur Abdullah se” (The whole country has become troubled because of you Abdul and Abdullah) — a statement condemned as demeaning and discriminatory. Observers noted that the remark targeted the staff’s religious identity rather than their conduct.
Khan publicly named one employee, Abdullah Khan, a runway coach driver, along with two others, Rehan and Muinuddin. All three are Muslim. Rights groups and commentators argued that publicly identifying employees and linking their religion to vague claims of “national security” constitutes intimidation and harassment.
“The real problem in this country is hateful people like her, not Abdul or Abdullah,” said Congress leader Shama Mohammed, demanding that IndiGo immediately place Khan on the “no fly list.” She also tagged the Mumbai Police, calling for an FIR against Nazia Elahi Khan.
Critics highlighted that since Khan herself shared the video, it raises concerns that the airline staff were subjected to abuse, rather than being responsible for any misconduct. Several social media users urged authorities to ensure the protection and accountability of the employees, emphasising that airline workers deserve dignity and safety regardless of religion.
The incident has prompted calls for airlines and airport authorities to take strong action against communal abuse and political pressure in public-facing and high-security workplaces.
IndiGo Airlines has yet to issue a statement on the incident or clarify whether an internal review has been initiated. Airport authorities have also not confirmed if any formal complaint was filed by the employees.
