Kamal Ghorui
An Indian man has been charged with molesting and harassing a flight attendant on board a Singapore Airlines flight. The incident happened mid-air last month.36-year-old Indian national Akash Tiwari was charged on Tuesday over the alleged offence, which took place on February 9. He is accused of using criminal force on an air stewardess by making bodily contact with the area around her buttocks while she was carrying out her duties.According to police, the incident began when the victim was serving Tiwari near his seat and he allegedly touched her inappropriately. She told him to stop and then went to the galley to get ready for landing.However, the situation escalated when Tiwari allegedly followed her to the galley, cornered her in the confined space and continued to pursue her, causing her distress. The woman shouted at him and left the area, but he allegedly followed her again into the aisle.He returned to his seat only after she reported the matter to her supervisor.Police said they were alerted to the incident that same day. Officers from the Airport Police Division carried out follow-up investigations and arrested Tiwari upon the aircraft’s arrival at Changi Airport.Tiwari is also accused of using threatening behaviour during the encounter with the victim.A gag order has been imposed to protect the identity of the air stewardess. (Channel NewsAsia) CNA said it is not disclosing further details about the flight as this could lead to her being identified by colleagues.When asked in court, Akash said he was not guilty. He could face up to three years in jail, a fine, caning, or a combination of these penalties if convicted of molestation. For threatening behaviour and causing distress, he could face up to six months in jail, a fine of up to S$5,000 (US$3,900), or both.
