Anchorage, Alaska | April 9, 2025 — In a harrowing account that’s now gaining global attention, Indian entrepreneur Shruti Chaturvedi, the founder of India Action Project and Chaaipani, has revealed she was detained for over 8 hours at the Anchorage airport in Alaska, allegedly over a “suspicious” power bank found in her handbag.
But the detainment, as described by Chaturvedi, went far beyond a standard security check. In a candid post on X (formerly Twitter), she recounted being physically searched by a male officer, denied access to a phone call and restroom, and even held in a cold room after being stripped of her winter clothing — all while missing her flight and having her wallet and phone confiscated.
“Worst 7 Hours of My Life,” Says Shruti Chaturvedi
Taking to social media this morning, Shruti posted:
Imagine being detained by Police and FBI for 8 hours, being questioned the most ridiculous things, physically checked by a male officer on camera, stripped off warm wear, mobile phone, wallet, kept in chilled room, not allowed to use a restroom, or make a single phone call, made…
— Shruti Chaturvedi 🇮🇳 (@adhicutting) April 8, 2025
She followed the post with a poignant line:
“I don’t have to imagine, already past the worst 7 hours. And we all know why.”
Chaturvedi also tagged India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), suggesting her ordeal may have had elements of racial profiling or mistreatment often faced by international travelers of color.
What Happened at Anchorage Airport?
According to Shruti’s detailed online thread, the trouble began when TSA officials flagged her carry-on power bank as a suspicious item. What should have ended with a standard inspection escalated into a full-blown FBI investigation.
She was then allegedly taken to an isolated holding room, stripped of her winter clothing, and interrogated at length. She wasn’t allowed to contact family, legal help, or even relieve herself.
Eventually, she was let go, but only after missing her flight, left shaken and cold in a foreign country with no explanation provided.
Growing Concerns Over U.S. Airport Policies Under Trump Administration
This isn’t an isolated case.
With Donald Trump’s administration tightening immigration and border policies in his renewed term, international travelers, especially from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, have reported increased scrutiny and detentions at U.S. airports.
Shruti’s case underscores what advocacy groups have described as a “climate of suspicion”, where even minor travel accessories like chargers or electronics can trigger disproportionate responses.
Countries such as Germany, Canada, and the UAE have recently updated their travel advisories to the U.S., warning citizens to exercise caution, especially when passing through major transit hubs.
Public Outcry and Calls for Accountability
Shruti Chaturvedi’s experience has sparked outrage across Indian social media, with many demanding a response from the U.S. Embassy in India and a formal diplomatic intervention from the MEA.
Human rights activists and legal experts have also weighed in, pointing out the potential violations of international traveler rights, and emphasizing the need for greater transparency and accountability in security protocols.
Who Is Shruti Chaturvedi?
Shruti Chaturvedi is widely respected in Indian entrepreneurial and civic circles. As the founder of Chaaipani, a platform highlighting positive stories and change-makers, and the India Action Project, which promotes civic engagement, she has earned a reputation as a progressive voice for young India.
Her detention, ironically, occurred during her visit to the U.S. for an event focused on social impact and innovation.
A Wake-Up Call for Global Travelers?
Shruti’s story may be personal, but it reflects a broader truth — a changing atmosphere at U.S. airports that now raises more questions than answers for international travelers.
Whether it was racial profiling, xenophobia, or sheer bureaucracy, one thing is certain: travelers like Shruti are speaking out louder than ever before.
