THRC Issues Notice to Air India Express, DGCA on Pilot's Human Rights Complaint

By  News On Air   Jul 23, 2026

Agartala, July 23 (FD) The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has taken cognisance of a complaint filed by Agartala-based pilot Captain Partha Bhowmik against Air India Express Ltd. and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), alleging serious violations of his human rights arising out of his employment. Following a preliminary examination of the complaint and supporting documents, the Commission has issued notices to the respondents seeking their replies.

According to the complaint, Captain Bhowmik alleged that he was persuaded to sign a training bond after being assured of a posting in Kolkata and future career advancement. He claimed that he was denied salary for nearly 13 months—from October 11, 2023, to June 22, 2026—and was subsequently terminated without due notice. He further alleged that the airline withheld his No Objection Certificate (NOC) and other employment-related documents, preventing him from obtaining alternative employment.

The complaint also alleged that the introduction of a Group Seniority List in August 2024 adversely affected his career progression, resulting in an estimated career loss of ₹5 crore. Captain Bhowmik has sought ₹2.44 crore as outstanding dues and ₹1 crore as compensation for alleged mental harassment, taking his total compensation claim to ₹3.44 crore.

The Commission noted that Captain Bhowmik had previously served as a pilot with Vistara before its merger with the Air India Group. Following the merger, he received a fresh appointment letter from Air India Express but alleged that his service conditions deteriorated significantly, including reduced salary, diminished benefits, employment uncertainty and the discontinuation of medical insurance for both himself and his 78-year-old mother without prior notice. He claimed the withdrawal of medical coverage adversely affected his mother's treatment after she was admitted to an ICU in June 2026.

Observing that the allegations, if established, could amount to serious violations of human rights, the THRC issued notices to the Union of India through the DGCA and to Air India Express, represented by its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, directing them to submit their responses before the next hearing. Copies of the complaint have also been forwarded to the respondents for necessary action. FD JK