A viral social media clip alleging widespread misuse of wheelchair assistance by Indian air travellers has triggered significant discussion online, especially after Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw weighed in on the controversy.
The video, first shared by a Chinese user on X, shows a long queue of passengers seated in wheelchairs as airport staff guide them through the terminal. The user claimed that a large number of Indian passengers on US–India routes opt for wheelchair services, allegedly to secure priority boarding and additional support. According to the post, “the proportion of disabled passengers on some routes is as high as 80%,” implying misuse of the facility.
The clip gained further momentum when an Indian X user reshared it, stating that nearly 30% of passengers on India–US flights request wheelchair assistance. The user alleged that many are able-bodied travellers exploiting the system, leaving genuinely disabled passengers at a disadvantage.
The growing conversation reached Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, who reacted strongly to the viral clip. Resharing the video on her X handle, she suggested that airports impose a fee to curb misuse.
“They should charge an additional ₹5,000 per airport n then they will see how many genuine passengers there are!” she wrote.
Social media divided over Shaw’s comments
Shaw’s response prompted mixed reactions online. While many users agreed that a nominal fee could act as a deterrent against misuse, others argued that such a measure might place an unfair financial burden on people with disabilities who rely on the service. Several users called for better screening and verification instead of blanket charges, emphasising that accessibility assistance should remain easily available to those who truly need it.
The debate continues across platforms, highlighting the ongoing concerns around misuse of airport assistance and the need for more balanced policies.
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