Indian Press Union | Awareness Desk

Lucknow: Concerns have been raised by several returning Hajj pilgrims following reports of damaged luggage, missing personal belongings, and alleged baggage tampering at certain international airports in India.

According to complaints received from passengers arriving on international flights, including flights arriving at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, some travelers reported discovering damaged luggage, broken locks, torn protective wrapping, and missing personal items after collecting their baggage.

Passengers have alleged that luggage arrived in a condition different from that in which it was checked in, with some reporting noticeable differences in baggage weight and the absence of personal belongings.

Items reportedly claimed as missing by some passengers include:

• Foreign currency and Saudi Riyals
• Gold and silver jewellery
• Perfumes and personal accessories
• Clothing items
• Gifts and personal belongings

Airline representatives have reportedly informed some passengers that certain delayed baggage may have remained at the departure airport due to operational or weight-related reasons. However, concerns raised by affected passengers primarily relate to baggage that arrived at the destination but allegedly showed signs of damage or tampering.

Public Advisory for International Travelers

The Indian Press Union advises all international travelers, particularly returning pilgrims and senior citizens, to carefully inspect their luggage before leaving the airport arrival area.

1. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR)

Passengers who discover damaged baggage, missing items, or irregularities should immediately report the matter at the airline’s baggage service desk and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). This document serves as an important reference for any subsequent claim or investigation.

2. Preserve Evidence

Travelers are advised to:

• Take photographs and videos of any visible damage.
• Retain baggage tags, boarding passes, and travel documents.
• Prepare a list of any missing items with approximate values.
• Avoid repairing damaged luggage until documentation is completed.

3. Submit Official Complaints

Passengers may also consider filing complaints through appropriate channels, including:

• The AirSewa grievance portal of the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
• Airline customer grievance mechanisms.
• Relevant Hajj Committee representatives where available.
• Airport authorities responsible for baggage handling operations.

4. Approach Law Enforcement if Necessary

Where passengers believe a criminal offense may have occurred, they may approach the police station having jurisdiction over the airport and seek guidance regarding the filing of a formal complaint.

Distinction Between Security Confiscation and Missing Property

Travelers should note that certain items prohibited under aviation security regulations may be removed during screening processes by authorized authorities. Such actions differ from allegations involving missing personal property and should not be confused with reports of baggage tampering.

Need for Investigation and Accountability

Consumer rights advocates and passenger groups have called for thorough investigations into complaints relating to baggage handling, luggage security, and the protection of passenger property during international travel.

Authorities, airlines, and airport operators may review available records, security procedures, and CCTV footage where appropriate to determine the facts surrounding individual complaints.

Conclusion

International travelers place significant trust in aviation and baggage handling systems. Any reports of damaged baggage or missing belongings can cause distress and inconvenience to passengers, particularly elderly pilgrims returning from important religious journeys.

The Indian Press Union encourages travelers to remain vigilant, promptly report any irregularities, and utilize available grievance mechanisms to ensure that concerns are properly documented and addressed.

The circumstances surrounding individual complaints may vary, and any findings remain subject to official investigation and review by the relevant authorities.