IndiGo Ordered to Pay ₹1.19 Lakh for Lost Baggage in J&K

Srinagar, Mar 17 — A Consumer Forum in Jammu and Kashmir has directed IndiGo airline to compensate two passengers ₹1.19 lakh after their checked in baggage went missing during a return flight from Saudi Arabia.

Compensation Details

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission Baramulla/Bandipora ordered ₹89,000 for the value of the lost baggage, ₹20,000 for mental distress and inconvenience, and ₹10,000 to cover litigation expenses. The payment must be made within 30 days, failing which 10% annual interest will accrue from the date of the order until settlement.

Incident Overview

Passengers Mohammad Maqbool Hakeem and his wife Farhat Ara were traveling from Dammam (Saudi Arabia) to Srinagar via Delhi. They had checked in five pieces of luggage but received only four at arrival. Despite submitting a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and follow-up communication, the missing bag containing valuables worth ₹89,000 could not be traced.

Airline’s Liability

The Commission found that IndiGo staff at Dammam Airport had improperly clubbed baggage without issuing individual tags. While the airline denied responsibility, the Commission held IndiGo accountable for negligence, awarding compensation for both loss and inconvenience caused to the passengers.

Legal Representation

The complainants were represented by Advocate Umar Bashir, who presented the case before the Commission. The ruling underscores the accountability of airlines in handling passenger baggage and providing timely redressal.