The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed the plea for an urgent hearing on the IndiGo crisis, stating, "We can't operate an airline." Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of passengers are enduring the cancellation of flights by IndiGo for the seventh consecutive day. The bench led by Chief Justice Suryakant rejected the plea for an immediate hearing on the IndiGo crisis. He mentioned that the government's intervention will first be observed, stating, "We can't operate an airline." Addressing the court, a lawyer pointed out that thousands of flights are being canceled without prior notice, causing significant trouble for passengers.
Chief Justice of India, Suryakant, emphasized the gravity of the issue, stating, "This is a very serious matter. We understand. Millions are stranded at airports with urgent work and medical emergencies, but the judiciary cannot operate an airline. The Government of India is already addressing this crisis, seemingly taking timely actions. Let's see what unfolds."
Hearing in Delhi HC on Wednesday
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Wednesday, accusing IndiGo Airlines of unchecked violations such as arbitrary cancellations, overbooking, infringement of passenger rights, discriminatory practices, and failure to comply with DGCA regulations, contributing to the ongoing aviation crisis. On Monday, a PIL was mentioned in the Delhi High Court, demanding an independent judicial investigation into IndiGo’s widespread flight cancellations and directing the government to ensure immediate basic amenities for travelers stranded at various airports nationwide.
Crisis Continues on the Seventh Day
Operational challenges faced by IndiGo persisted into the seventh day on Monday, with 450 flights canceled. Since Tuesday last week, this major airline of the country has canceled over 4,500 flights, stranding passengers at airports.
Airline Responds in Confidential Letter
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had issued a show cause notice to IndiGo's CEO, Peter Elbers, and the accountable manager, seeking explanations about the widespread disruptions nationwide. Sources informed India Today/Aaj Tak that on Monday, the airline submitted a confidential letter to the government, presenting its stance.
