A new controversy erupted on social media following a viral document that appeared to be a guide to grooming for Air India’s cabin crew. The document, which appeared to be a “Cabin Crew Policy”, sparked outrage among users on social media platforms, all of whom accused Air India of being discriminatory and of having unnecessary grooming stylists for its cabin crew.
This latest incident comes on the heels of a Lenskart argument over a workplace policy that began circulating online. In the case of Air India, users of social media and alleged screenshots from the Air India handbook could be found discussing the allegedly restrictive nature of the rules concerning the wearing of religious items like bindi, sindoor, or tilak while working.
Cabin Crew Policy sparks outrage over bindi and sindoor rules
According to the viral posts, the “Cabin Crew Policy” prohibits female cabin crew members from displaying visible religious markings (e.g. bindi, sindoor, tilak). Upon reading the comments made about the alleged policy, many social media users questioned why these types of cultural symbols would be prohibited in a professional employment environment.
Social media reactions were sharp and emotional. One user asked, “Why are they doing this so blatantly?” while sharing images from the supposed handbook. The debate soon turned into a wider discussion on identity, workplace rules, and cultural expression under the Cabin Crew Policy.
Cabin Crew Policy draws comparisons with past grooming norms
Airlines had previous grooming norms but they were more flexible than those of today. For example, previous grooming norms allowed women to wear small sized bindis and had specific restrictions on hairstyles and jewellery worn by women.
With today’s Cabin Crew Policy, there appears to be a shift towards stricter enforcement of these grooming norms according to multiple internet posts. This has led others to question if the airline is moving towards a uniform brand image at the expense of cultural identity.
Cabin Crew Policy debate widens across social media platforms
As the posts grew in popularity, users across many platforms engaged in discussion surrounding the motivations behind the Cabin Crew Policy. Some felt that airlines implement strict grooming rules in order to create an identical and professional appearance; particularly in international markets.
Conversely, others strongly disagreed and felt that the banning of items such as the bindi or sindoor represents a violation of individual choice. For many people, these items are not simply fashion but rather significant cultural/religious symbols of identity. This significantly complicates the Cabin Crew Policy and has become a topic that has incited much discussion in all mediums of social media.
Cabin Crew Policy raises larger questions on identity and workspaces
This discussion extends well beyond one airline; it encompasses a more extensive dialogue regarding global brand identity versus the need for diverse cultures within corporate settings. Critics argue that creating policies like this one may contribute to the erasure of identity under the guise of creating a uniform global workforce.
To date, no formal statement regarding these viral claims has been made by the airline. Therefore, the ongoing debate on the issues raised by the Cabin Crew Policy will continue to expand, with many people requesting transparency from the organisation and better lines of communication.
Khalid Qasid is a media enthusiast with a strong interest in documentary filmmaking. He holds a Master’s degree in Convergent Journalism from AJK MCRC. He has also written extensively on esports at Sportsdunia. Currently, he covers world and general news at NewsX Digital.
