Cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle criticises popular Indian airline for mistreating elderly passengers

In a disheartening incident, the famous Indian cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle slammed IndiGo, a popular Indian airline, for mistreating an elderly couple. The cricket mogul took to X and expressed his frustration in a lengthy post on August 24.

Bhogle shared his irritation and anger over the airline’s decision to move the elderly couple from their paid seats in row 4 to row 19 without any prior information or explanation. The couple had initially chosen their seats to avoid a lengthy walk down the aisle, but the sudden switch meant they were forced to walk a narrow passage, causing discomfort.
The incidentHarsha Bhogle recounted an incident where an elderly couple's pre-paid seats in row 4 were moved to row 19 by the airline without explanation. The couple had chosen these seats to avoid a long walk down the aisle, but the sudden change meant the 80-year-old man would struggle to reach his new seat. Bhogle expressed frustration, noting that the airline’s lack of concern for their discomfort was apparent, stating, "But who gives a damn?"
In his post, Bhogle tagged #IndigoFirstPassengerLast. He described the incident as a lack of sensitivity and consideration from the airline. He also criticised IndiGo’s staff for not even providing any reason for the seat change and for only restoring the couple’s original seats after other passengers intervened.

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According to Bhogle, the couple’s struggle was only acknowledged when passengers spoke up. He also said that it was not the first time for the elderly woman, who had expressed frustration with frequent occurrences of similar issues during her travels. He said that the need for airlines to prioritise passenger welfare over operational efficiency and to ensure that ground staff are more attuned to the needs of senior travellers.


His post has gone viral and has been receiving attention, garnering 206,000 views and 163 comments. Many netizens echoed his thoughts, questioning how an airline could justify moving passengers from their pre-booked and paid seats. The general sentiment among commenters was one of disbelief at the airline's apparent lack of empathy and the dismissive treatment of its elderly customers.

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In his critique, Bhogle urged IndiGo to reassess its customer service policies and to cultivate a more compassionate approach. His message resonated with many, reinforcing the call for greater consideration and respect for passengers, particularly those who face additional challenges while travelling.