# Kerala flight passenger charged with attempt to murder after exit bid

2026-08-08T12:54:09+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Police have added an attempt to murder charge against Jamsheer Athanikkal, who allegedly tried to force open the emergency exit of a Batik Air flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kochi on Wednesday, damaged its window panel and threatened passengers and crew. Cabin crew restrained him, and he was arrested on arrival Thursday. Initially booked under criminal intimidation, the Aircraft Act and the Kerala Police Act, the charge was upgraded because his act 'could have endangered the lives of the co-passengers,' police said. During questioning, Athanikkal said he felt like dying. Police said there was no apparent provocation. They will seek custody on Monday and conduct a mental health evaluation.

## Coverage

- newindianexpress.com <https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2026/Aug/08/kerala-attempt-to-murder-charge-against-passenger-accused-of-trying-to-open-flight-exit-gate-2>
- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/passenger-who-tried-to-open-emergency-exit-of-kochi-kuala-lumpur-flight-booked-for-attempt-to-murder-101786208322776.html>

Tags: attempt to murder, Batik Air, criminal intimidation, flight incident, Kerala Police, mental health test
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Cite: https://indianopinion.org/kerala-police-add-attempt-to-murder-charge-against-passenger-who-tried-to-open-flight-exit/#story-in-brief

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