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The MLA stated that Ali was speaking loudly on a mobile phone and using abusive words.
Man Arrested For Misbehaviour With UP MLA Rakesh Singh On Delhi-Lucknow Air India Flight
A 26-year-old passenger was booked by Sarojininagar police following a mid-air confrontation with Gauriganj MLA Rakesh Pratap Singh aboard Air India flight AI 837 from Delhi to Lucknow. The passenger, Samad Ali of Fatehpur, was returning from Jeddah via a connecting flight.
What do we know about the incident?
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According to Singh, Ali used abusive language while speaking on his phone. When the MLA confronted him, Ali allegedly argued and pushed Singh. Upon landing in Lucknow, Singh reported the incident to the police and lodged a formal complaint. Authorities confirmed that Ali has been taken into custody for questioning.
The MLA stated that Ali was speaking loudly on a mobile phone and using abusive words, ignoring requests from a female passenger to lower his voice. When Singh and others intervened, Ali allegedly became aggressive and pushed the MLA.
Under Indian aviation rules, passengers creating disturbances on flights can be placed on the no-fly list. At least 48 individuals were listed this year until 30 July. Depending on the severity of misconduct, unruly passengers can face flying bans for extended periods.Â
Who is Rakesh Pratap Singh?
Rakesh Pratap Singh, born on 30 June 1976, is an Indian politician and member of the 18th Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly, representing the Gauriganj constituency in Amethi district. Singh is affiliated with the Samajwadi Party but was expelled in June 2025 for allegedly working against party principles and supporting the BJP in the 2024 Rajya Sabha elections.Â
Despite his expulsion, he continues as an unaffiliated MLA. He first won his assembly seat in 2012 and has since secured multiple terms. Singh briefly resigned in October 2021, citing “non-fulfillment of promises” by the ruling government, but was re-elected in 2022.
About the Author
Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public…Read More
Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public… Read More
Delhi, India, India
October 01, 2025, 13:16 IST
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