Was The Passenger's Gun Loaded? Accidental Firing At Varanasi Airport, Victims & Ministry React

The shocking accidental firing incident inside the Varanasi airport continues to spring unanswered questions. The biggest question arising now is whether or not the gun was loaded to begin with. Two security staff members at the airport were injured in the incident, and their accounts aren't matching either.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) took cognisance of the firing incident, confirming accidental gunfire by passenger Kamlesh Rai, who was carrying a licensed pistol while travelling to Mumbai on an Air India Express flight, which he had declared at the check-in counter, as required under the prescribed procedure..

The statement said the passenger was escorted to the designated screening area for completion of the mandatory security formalities. During the handling and inspection of the weapon, a round was accidentally discharged. The bullet ricocheted and caused injuries to two security personnel, Rohit Raj and Suman Kumari, said statement.

The ministry confirmed that both personnel were immediately provided assistance and shifted to New Lakshmi Trauma Center, Varanasi, for medical treatment. The local police were informed immediately and the passenger has been detained for investigation and further action in accordance with law, said MoCA.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is examining the circumstances leading to the incident, including adherence to the prescribed procedures for handling and carriage of licensed weapons at airports.

Injured in the incident, airport staff member Rohit Raj said that the gun was checked by removing its magazine, and it was found that the gun was loaded. "He then pressed the trigger downwards and the weapon fired. I sustained an injury near the last finger of my left hand," said Raj.

Suman Kumari, the other injured victim in this incident, said that the gun was not loaded. "The passenger said the weapon was unloaded and pressed the trigger to show us. The shot was fired while he was showing it to us. The bullet hit me in both legs, including the thigh," she added.