Flying in a month and a half thru DEL again (risking it after experiencing a complete shitshow in 2022). Unlike my last time (UA-AI with a 13 hr connection I-D in Y), I'm flying AI J with a 3hr 45min connection I-D. Flights are AI 184 from SFO and AI 439 to MAA. Knowing early morning is probably the busiest time for international arrivals, how likely is it I'll make my flight? Also, is there a transfer desk for bags (like in the US) or do I have to recheck in the bags at the main counter?

Additionally, last time the DEL immigration officer was a bigot who created hell for me since I didn't know Hindi as a person of Indian origin (My family's from South India, so my native language is completely different, and I was born and raised in the US, so it's not like I ever needed to know Hindi). Spoke English excellently to a Punjabi family before me but as soon as he saw my name (which would easily point out family origin), he would not speak any English, making it difficult for me to explain anything to him (he saw that I had a mobile boarding pass and ran with that issue). He also insisted no phones be used (which I get, for security purposes, but also, why issue mobile boarding passes if we can't use them as proof), so I couldn't even use a translating app. For any South Indian OCI holders, has this been consistent with your experience? I want to know if I need to expect this again and see how I can avoid it. Also, is there a separate queue for immigration for business class passengers?