A serious complaint has been filed against the Jharsuguda Airport Director. The accusations include casteist abuse and physical assault. The incident has led to the registration of a police case.
The complainant, Sandip Kumar Minz, holds a senior position at the airport. He also leads the local unit of the All Airports Employees’ Union. He has accused Director Sandeep Tiwari of verbal abuse involving caste-based slurs and physical assault.
Incident Reported During Discussion on Employee Welfare
The incident reportedly occurred during a routine discussion. Minz had approached the airport director on Tuesday morning. The agenda involved employee welfare and accountability in material handling.
According to Minz, unauthorised lifting of materials was raised. Materials such as sand, ash, and stone chips were allegedly being diverted illegally. This raised serious concerns among the airport staff.
Minz mentioned that he had earlier submitted a complaint about this matter. During the discussion, he claims that Tiwari became aggressive without provocation. Verbal slurs were allegedly used, and the situation escalated into physical violence.
Medical Report Confirms Physical Injuries
Following the incident, Minz was taken to the district headquarters hospital. Medical officers have confirmed injuries on his back and chest. His facial injuries have been marked for dental examination.
The complaint filed by Minz led to swift action by the police. A First Information Report (FIR) was lodged at the Airport Police Station.
The police have booked the director under multiple sections. These include charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Charges Filed Under BNS and SC/ST Act
Investigating Officer Hemangini Gardia has confirmed the registration of the case. Charges include BNS Sections 115(2), 296, and 351(3). Provisions of the SC/ST Act, 1989, have also been invoked.
Specific sections include 3(1)(r), 3(1)(s), 3(2) and 5A. These address intentional insult, intimidation, and physical harm against members of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes.
These legal provisions highlight the severity of the accusations. If proven, these charges carry significant penalties and legal consequences.
Airport Union Demands Transfer of Director
The All Airports Employees’ Union has condemned the incident. They have strongly supported Minz’s complaint. According to the union, this is not the first instance of such behaviour by the director.
There have been past complaints of misconduct against him. The union is demanding Sandeep Tiwari’s immediate transfer from the airport.
They claim that a hostile work environment has been created under his leadership. Employee concerns have reportedly been ignored or met with hostility.
Director Denies Allegations; Police Investigation Underway
Meanwhile, Director Sandeep Tiwari has denied all charges. He has called the complaint false and baseless. No official statement has been released by the Airports Authority of India yet.
Police officials have stated that the investigation is ongoing. Witnesses are being questioned and documents are being reviewed.
Further action will depend on the evidence collected during the investigation. Both parties may be summoned for further questioning.
Legal Experts Call for Fair Investigation
Legal experts have stressed the importance of a fair and unbiased investigation. Cases involving caste-based abuse are treated with utmost seriousness under Indian law. The SC/ST Act has specific guidelines for such complaints.
Experts also highlighted the impact of such incidents on employee morale. Workplaces must ensure safety and dignity for all staff, regardless of rank.
Community Outrage and Social Media Reactions
The incident has sparked outrage on social media. Many users have voiced support for Minz. Civil rights activists are calling for stronger actions against caste discrimination in workplaces.
The hashtag #JusticeForMinz has started trending locally. Netizens have also raised questions about accountability in public sector roles.
This case is being seen as a test for institutional accountability and caste equity in professional spaces.
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