In a statement issued on Thursday, the airline called these claims "unsubstantiated and inaccurate," and reiterated its commitment to supporting the grieving families through this incredibly difficult time. The controversy began when some reports suggested that bereaved families were being pressured to declare whether or not they were financially dependent on the deceased. Critics argued that this might be used to determine - or reduce - compensation payouts. Air India, however, insists that the question is standard and necessary for ensuring that interim payments reach the rightful recipients in a timely manner. "We cannot process these payments in an information vacuum," the airline stated. "To help families meet their immediate financial needs, we have sought basic information to verify relationships and identify the next of kin. The dependency question is one of several needed for this process." To facilitate this effort, Air India set up a Facilitation Centre on June 15 at the Taj Skyline hotel in Ahmedabad, where families can access the questionnaire in person or receive it by email. The airline emphasized that there is no obligation to complete the form on-site. Air India staff are present to assist those who prefer in-person support, and families are free to seek legal counsel if they wish. The airline also clarified that any forms filled out in hospitals or morgues are unrelated to compensation and likely part of government procedures. "We have not made unsolicited visits to families' homes," the statement read, "nor have we followed up uninvited on compensation paperwork." So far, Air India says it has disbursed interim compensation to 47 families, with documentation for another 55 individuals verified and currently being processed. Discussions with remaining families or their representatives are ongoing. Air India, now part of the Tata Group, underscored its commitment to transparency, compassion, and long-term support. In a significant humanitarian gesture, the Tata Group has announced a voluntary ex-gratia payment of ₹1 crore for the families of each deceased individual. A ₹500-crore trust is being established to manage these funds and offer ongoing assistance, over and above the legal compensation Air India is required to provide. "These families will forever be part of the Tata family," the airline noted. "We urge the public and media to be mindful of misinformation. Our focus remains on supporting the affected families with integrity and care." The AI171 crash has left a deep scar on the country, and as the investigation continues, so too does the healing process for those who lost loved ones. Amid grief, the hope is that support efforts - both material and emotional - will bring some measure of solace.