A large group of government officials and party workers entered the Coimbatore airport terminal on Friday to welcome VCK minister Vanni Arasu, prompting criticism from passengers.
Travellers said that even when the Chief Minister or Union ministers arrive, usually only a collector and one or two officials are permitted inside the terminal. In this case, around 12 officials reportedly went in together, with party members reaching up to the escalator area.
Similar crowding was seen near the vehicle waiting zone, where more than ten cars were lined up to receive the minister. Passengers described the episode as a breach of security norms and asked who would be accountable if any untoward incident occurred.
They also questioned how airport authorities allowed such access. The incident has renewed debate over whether VIP receptions are being conducted in line with airport safety rules despite a change in government.
