AFP extension
ANNOUNCEMENTS•
US banking group Wells Fargo has fired a senior man in its Indian department because he urinated on a fellow traveler on an Air India flight from New York to Delhi. The incident occurred in late November.
It concerns Shankar Mishra (34), who was a vice president of the Indian branch of Wells Fargo, one of the largest banks in the world. He allegedly was drunk during the flight, opened his pants and urinated on his 72-year-old travel companion. The news came out recently through an Indian newspaper, which published the woman’s complaint. Mishra was also arrested.
No other place
The woman claims in the complaint that she asked for a different seat after the crash, but according to the flight crew, it was not available. However, she said she heard from fellow passengers that there were still seats available in the more expensive first class.
According to the woman, when he was somewhat sober again, the man burst into tears and begged her not to press charges. Her lawyer says he settled the case with the woman for 15,000 rupees (170 euros) and compensated her. It is not clear whether this is actually the case.
The police had issued an arrest warrant against Mishra, it is said NDTV, but the man had disappeared and had turned off his cell phone. Eventually the officers managed to find him using his credit card in Bangalore city. He also communicated with friends via social media.
Airline criticism
Air India’s actions may face a lot of criticism in India, including from the Indian aviation regulator. He believes the company reported the incident too late.
The company is investigating the matter and has suspended one pilot and four cabin crew members during the investigation. Air India CEO Wilson admits in a statement that he could have done things better, “both in the air and on the ground,” and promises to get better. The company is also investigating its on-flight alcohol policy.
Mishra’s former employer Wells Fargo says the bank has “the highest standards” of professional and personal conduct. “We find these allegations deeply troubling,” the company said.
