Supreme Court Criticizes Government Over Unregulated Airfare Hikes

The Supreme Court lambasted the Centre for delaying its affidavit filing on airfare regulation, amid unpredictable hikes and ancillary charges by airlines. The plea, initiated by activist S Laxminarayanan, seeks a transparent, independent regulator for passenger protection. The court emphasized swift regulatory action, highlighting its urgency during emergencies and festivals.

The Supreme Court reprimanded the Centre for failing to file an affidavit addressing a plea for regulating unpredictable airfare hikes and ancillary charges by airlines in India. The petition, spearheaded by social activist S. Laxminarayanan, calls for an independent regulator to ensure transparency and passenger protection.

Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta led the bench, questioning the Centre's delay despite a prior notice. The petition highlights the exploitation through arbitrary rises in airfares, reduction in baggage allowances, and lack of passenger compensations.

Emphasizing consumer rights, the plea argues for stricter controls, especially during festivals and emergencies, where vulnerable citizens face unjust costs. The bench mandated the Centre to submit its affidavit by next week, stressing urgent judicial intervention.