Mumbai’s Air India recruitment drive, aimed at filling 2,216 airport loader positions, erupted into chaos as over 25,000 job seekers flocked to the venue. The overwhelming turnout led to a stampede-like situation, exposing the severe employment crisis gripping India.

The recruitment event, held at Mumbai airport, saw applicants pushing and shoving to reach form counters, creating a dangerous environment. Many waited for hours without access to food or water, leading to health issues among the crowd. The role of an airport loader, which involves handling luggage and cargo, offers a salary range of Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 per month, with potential overtime earnings boosting this figure. Despite the basic educational requirements, the physical demands of the job have drawn a wide array of candidates, from students to graduates.

This chaotic scene follows a similar incident in Gujarat, where a recruitment drive for just 10 positions led to a railing collapse due to the crowd surge. These events have ignited political controversy, with Congress MPs using them to criticize the ruling BJP’s handling of the employment situation. Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad highlighted the desperation among job seekers, suggesting that the unemployment crisis is so dire that young people are willing to endure dangerous conditions for a chance at employment.

Air India has yet to comment on the Mumbai incident, but the episode underscores the urgent need for better job creation and recruitment management practices. As the country grapples with high unemployment rates, incidents like these highlight the critical need for systematic reforms to ensure that job opportunities are accessible and safe for all.