In a frustrating incident that underscores the challenges travelers face, Monik Sharma from Assam lost his luggage while flying on IndiGo’s domestic route from Kolkata to Guwahati. The lost bag reportedly contained items valued at Rs 45,000, including important documents such as a driving license, PAN card, and Aadhaar card. Despite the significant loss, IndiGo offered Sharma a compensation of just Rs 2,450, sparking outrage and raising concerns about airline compensation policies.
Social Media Outcry Over Meager Compensation
The incident gained attention after one of Sharma’s friends posted about the situation on social media. The post highlighted the inadequate compensation offered by IndiGo, pointing out the disparity between the value of the lost items and the airline’s offer. The friend noted that the luggage was lost during a major Crowdstrike outage that disrupted airline operations. “How can it vanish mid-air? Was the plane leaking bags?” the post sarcastically asked, emphasizing the frustration and disbelief over the incident.
HAVE A LOOK:
Every day you learn how the system can mess you up in a new way. @IndiGo6E lost my friend’s @nik1220‘s baggage on a domestic flight (Kolkata-Guwahati).
The bag had stuff worth 45k in it along with important papers like Driving License, PAN, Aadhar, etc.
It was checked in at… pic.twitter.com/L54ZUtOpHr
— Ravi Handa (@ravihanda) August 24, 2024
Airline Policies Under Scrutiny
According to the social media post, the compensation amount was based on an airline policy that limits liability to Rs 350 per kilogram of lost baggage. This policy, intended to cover losses, has been criticized for being insufficient, particularly when the contents of the lost luggage are of high value. The friend pointed out that the compensation offered wouldn’t even cover the cost of the lost bag itself, let alone its valuable contents.
IndiGo Promises Further Investigation
In response to the social media outcry, IndiGo’s social media team contacted Sharma’s friend, assuring him that they would further investigate the matter. However, it remains unclear whether the luggage has been located or if any additional compensation will be provided.
Public Reactions and Advice
The incident has sparked widespread discussion among social media users, many of whom shared their experiences and offered advice. Some users emphasized that airlines often advise passengers not to place valuables or important documents in checked luggage. Others suggested that Sharma should check the lost and found departments at both airports, as there is a possibility that the luggage was mistakenly taken by another passenger.
The Broader Issue of Airline Compensation
This incident brings to light the broader issue of airline compensation policies and the frustrations passengers face when their luggage is lost or damaged. As travelers increasingly rely on air travel, the need for fair and adequate compensation policies becomes more pressing. The public’s reaction to Sharma’s case reflects a growing demand for airlines to provide more substantial compensation for lost or damaged luggage, ensuring that passengers are not left to bear the brunt of such unfortunate situations.
