In-Flight Assault Case: Indian national to face trial in Singapore Court

An Indian national has been charged in Singapore over the alleged molestation and harassment of a cabin crew member aboard a commercial flight, in an incident that has drawn concern over passenger misconduct and its impact on India’s global image.

According to court documents and local media reports, Akash Tiwari, 35 , faces charges of using criminal force to outrage the modesty of an air stewardess on a Singapore Airlines flight from Bangkok to Singapore on February 9 . He is also accused of causing distress through threatening behaviour .

Police said the incident occurred while the crew member was serving the passenger near his seat. Tiwari allegedly made inappropriate physical contact , prompting the stewardess to immediately warn him and withdraw to the galley area to prepare for landing. Authorities were alerted at about 4:30 pm , and officers from the Airport Police Division arrested him after the aircraft landed.

Tiwari has indicated that he intends to plead not guilty . He is scheduled to return to court on March 26 for a pre-trial conference, according to The Straits Times.

Singapore authorities stressed that offences against airline crew are treated with utmost seriousness . Under the city-state’s laws, using criminal force to outrage modesty carries penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, caning, or a combination of these punishments. A separate charge of intentional harassment may result in up to six months’ jail and/or a fine up to SGD 5,000 .

A police statement said offenders who threaten the safety and dignity of airline staff will be dealt with sternly, underscoring Singapore’s strict stance on public order and passenger conduct.