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Air India has strongly denied allegations made by UK-based law firm Stewarts Law, which represents over 40 families affected by the tragic AI171 Ahmedabad crash. The airline rejected claims that it had forced families of the victims to disclose financial dependency details to receive compensation.
In a statement issued on June 4, Air India said: “We categorically reject these allegations and refute them as both unsubstantiated and inaccurate.” The airline clarified that no coercion or intimidation was involved in its compensation process.
Questionnaire Meant for Verifying Family Ties
According to Moneycontrol, The controversy centres around a questionnaire sent to some families of the crash victims. Stewarts Law alleged that Air India used it as a tactic to slash compensation payouts. However, Air India explained that the form was designed solely to verify familiar relationships and ensure the rightful distribution of interim compensation.
"To facilitate payments, we sought basic information to establish family relationships," the statement read. The airline emphasised that families were given the flexibility to submit the forms either in person at the Facilitation Centre in Ahmedabad or via email, with no pressure or unsolicited home visits.
Compensation Status Update
Senior Air India officials told that interim compensation of Rs 25 lakh has already been paid to 47 families, with payments for another 55 families in progress. They underscored that these measures were aimed at expediting financial support to grieving families.
Aviation Tragedy Sparks Legal Tensions
The allegations from Stewarts Law add another layer of complexity to the aftermath of India’s deadliest aviation disaster in nearly three decades. On June 12, AI171 crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, killing 260 people, 241 onboard and 19 on the ground.
Airline Stands Firm Amid Accusations
As legal proceedings continue overseas, Air India maintains its stance, asserting that its actions are in line with international norms and aimed at supporting victims’ families in their time of need.
