Congress leaders demand dismissal of officials for ‘inhumane treatment’ of 84-year-old Dubai-based industrialist at Jaipur Airport
In a strong statement of condemnation, Nikhil Ruparel, National Delegate of the NSUI, and Preeti Choksi, Mumbai General Secretary of Mahila Congress, have jointly criticized the alleged mistreatment of Dubai-based Non-Resident Indian (NRI) industrialist Vasu Shroff by customs officials at Jaipur Airport, reported morningkashmir.com.
Shroff, Chairman of the Regal Group in Dubai, arrived at Jaipur Airport wearing a 188-gram gold watch, accompanied by valid purchase documents. However, customs officials allegedly confiscated the watch and subjected him to prolonged detainment without proper food, water, or access to medication, despite his advanced age and health concerns.
Shroff, 84, was reportedly left in a wheelchair for hours after his gold watch worth Rs 35.17 lakh was seized — despite having valid proof of purchase.
Ruparel and Choksi strongly condemned what they called “inhumane treatment” and highlighted the incident as a glaring example of the disrespect often shown to NRIs who have contributed significantly to India’s global image and economy. They urged the immediate dismissal of the customs officials involved and called for a systemic overhaul to ensure NRIs are treated with dignity and fairness.
Political leaders demand accountability, call for reform in handling of NRIs at Indian airports.
The duo emphasized that such actions damage India’s international reputation and strain relations with its vast NRI community. “Our NRIs deserve more than humiliation. They deserve respect, gratitude, and human dignity,” the leaders said in a joint statement.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage within the diaspora community, with calls growing louder for stricter oversight and accountability in airport customs operations.
