On the morning of August 2, 2025, a video went viral on social media showing a passenger being slapped mid-flight—while reportedly suffering from a panic attack. The incident has sparked outrage across the country, raising serious questions about air travel safety in India, mental health awareness, and respect for fellow passengers.
How the Incident Happened
The incident occurred on an IndiGo flight traveling from Mumbai to Kolkata. Midway through the journey, passenger Hossain Ahmed Mazumdar appeared visibly anxious and was reportedly experiencing a panic attack. The cabin crew could be seen trying to escort him back to his seat and calm him down.
Suddenly, another passenger stepped forward and slapped Hossain without any visible provocation. The entire episode was caught on camera and quickly went viral on social media. Shocked passengers and crew immediately intervened to prevent further escalation.
IndiGo’s Response
IndiGo Airlines issued a statement strongly condemning the act, calling it “completely unacceptable” and a violation of passenger dignity and safety.
The airline said that the unruly passenger was handed over to security authorities upon arrival in Kolkata, and all relevant regulatory agencies were informed in line with standard protocol. IndiGo also reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for both passengers and crew members.
Where is the Victim Now?
Hossain Ahmed Mazumdar, a gym trainer based in Mumbai, was originally from Katigorah in Assam’s Cachar district. He had boarded the Mumbai–Kolkata flight to catch a connecting flight to Silchar, Assam.
However, his family members, who were waiting for him at Silchar Airport, say he never arrived. His phone has been switched off, and they believe he may have left it behind in Mumbai.
When Hossain failed to show up on the Silchar flight, his relatives contacted local authorities and filed a missing person complaint at Udharband Police Station. His father, who is battling cancer, has been devastated by the news of his disappearance.
Public Outrage and Social Media Reaction
The viral video triggered widespread anger on social media. Many people condemned the passenger’s violent behavior, calling for strict action against him. Others expressed deep concern about Hossain’s sudden disappearance after the incident.
Numerous posts demanded a transparent investigation into the matter, urging the release of airport CCTV footage and other evidence to track his movements after the flight landed.
Key Issues Raised
| Issue | Details |
| Mental Health Sensitivity | There is a clear lack of understanding and awareness about conditions like panic attacks. |
| Passenger Dignity and Safety | Violence under any circumstances is unacceptable on board a flight. |
| Mystery of the Disappearance | Hossain’s sudden vanishing after landing raises many questions. |
| Need for Transparent Investigation | The public and the family demand clarity and accountability from both the airline and authorities. |
Why This Incident Matters
This is not just a story about an in-flight altercation—it’s about societal attitudes toward mental health, the responsibilities of airlines in protecting passengers, and the urgent need for accountability when something goes wrong.
If a passenger suffering from a medical or psychological condition is not only mistreated but then disappears without trace, it points to potential gaps in post-flight passenger handling, security monitoring, and crisis management.
What Needs to Happen Next
To ensure justice and passenger safety, authorities must:
- Conduct an impartial investigation into the incident and make CCTV footage public.
- Locate Hossain immediately and ensure his safe return to his family.
- Provide mental health sensitivity training to airline staff and improve passenger handling procedures.
This incident is a stark reminder that air travel isn’t just about take-off and landing—it’s also about human dignity, empathy, and safety. The way this case is handled will set a precedent for how future incidents involving vulnerable passengers are addressed in India’s aviation sector.
IndiGo Flight Technical Snag: 6E 7295 Returns in 1 Hour