Two airport security screening personnel were injured after a licensed pistol accidentally discharged during mandatory weapons screening at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The passenger, identified as Kamlesh Kedarnath Rai from Azamgarh, was travelling with his wife to Mumbai on Air India Express flight IX-1810. According to officials, Rai had declared the weapon before travelling. The firearm, a 7.62 mm pistol, was being inspected along with 21 live cartridges when a round was accidentally discharged. The projectile reportedly ricocheted and injured two screening personnel, identified as Rohit Raj and Suman Kumari.
How Did the Pistol Fire During Screening?
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said the passenger was taken to the designated screening area to complete the required security formalities. During the handling and inspection of the weapon, a round was accidentally fired. The bullet reportedly ricocheted and struck two AAICLAS screening personnel. Both injured staff members were taken to New Laxmi Trauma Centre for medical treatment. Senior police officers, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Gomti Zone) and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Pindra), reached the airport after receiving information about the incident. Police inspected the scene and began collecting evidence. According to police officer Neetu Kadyan, appropriate legal action is being taken in connection with the incident.
थाना फूलपुर क्षेत्रांतर्गत लाल बहादुर शास्त्री अंतरराष्ट्रीय हवाई अड्डे पर यात्री की लाइसेंसी पिस्टल से चेकिंग के दौरान आकस्मिक फायरिंग की घटना के संबंध में श्रीमती नीतू कदयान, पुलिस उपायुक्त गोमती ज़ोन, कमिश्नरेट वाराणसी की बाइट।#Uppolice #VaranasiPolice pic.twitter.com/fJjIJSWEJk
— DCP Gomti Zone VNS (@DcpGomti) August 16, 2026
Passenger Was Travelling to Mumbai With Wife
The incident occurred at around 9:30 am on August 16, 2026, while Rai and his wife were preparing to board Air India Express flight IX-1810 to Mumbai. The passenger had declared the weapon, and it was being checked as part of the airport’s mandatory security procedure. Investigators are now examining how the firearm discharged during the inspection and whether all prescribed safety procedures were followed. The two injured screeners were shifted to hospital for treatment, while authorities continued their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accidental firing.
Are Firearms Allowed on Flights in India?
Yes, licensed firearms can be transported on certain flights in India, but they cannot be carried in the aircraft cabin. Air India Express’ current policy allows a bonafide passenger to carry one licensed revolver, pistol or shotgun and permitted ammunition in checked baggage, subject to applicable rules, prior declaration and verification of the required documents. Passengers must declare the firearm and ammunition, produce a valid firearms licence or relevant authorisation, and ensure the firearm is unloaded and packed separately from the ammunition. Air India Express also states that firearms and ammunition must be securely packed to prevent them from becoming a source of danger. However, firearms and ammunition are prohibited in cabin baggage or on a passenger’s person. Air India Express says violations can lead to seizure of the weapon and legal action under applicable law. The Varanasi incident highlights the risks involved in handling firearms even when they are legally licensed and properly declared for air travel.
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Shamshad Ali is a New Delhi–based journalist with over six years of experience spanning breaking news writing, on-the-ground reporting, and editing. When he isn’t chasing headlines, Shamshad is usually exploring new destinations, discovering hidden culinary gems, and striking up conversations with strangers. Many of whom turn out to be great sources, and even better friends. He can be reached at shamshadali.dar@gmail.com.
