A 36-year-old Indian-origin man, Bhaveshkumar Dahyabhai Shukla, has been formally indicted in the United States for allegedly engaging in abusive sexual contact with a fellow passenger aboard an American Airlines flight.
According to federal prosecutors in Montana, the incident occurred on January 26, 2025, during a flight from Bozeman, Montana to Dallas, Texas. Shukla, a resident of Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey, now faces serious legal consequences following the accusations of unwanted physical contact.
Victim’s Account and Federal Investigation
An affidavit filed by FBI Special Agent Chad McNiven details the disturbing allegations. The victim told authorities that Shukla initially touched her thighs, buttocks, and lower back during the flight. She protested, and the touching stopped. However, after returning from the restroom, she alleged that Shukla resumed touching her inappropriately—this time including her vaginal area—while trying to hide his actions with his coat.
Another passenger reportedly witnessed parts of the incident and corroborated the victim’s account. The victim also texted her husband during the flight, prompting him to immediately contact the FBI and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Police. The case led to a joint investigation by the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and airport authorities.
Legal Action and Possible Sentence
Shukla has been charged with one count of abusive sexual contact within the special aircraft jurisdiction of the U.S. If convicted, he faces up to two years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a minimum of five years of supervised release. His arraignment is scheduled for April 17, 2025, and the case is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
