Privatization Turbulence: Tewari Criticizes Tata's Air India Management Amid Safety Concerns

Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari criticizes the privatization of Air India under Tata Group, citing operational issues and safety concerns. A recent DGCA audit highlights multiple deficiencies in Air India's operations, raising questions over Tata’s management efficacy. Air India promises corrective actions.

Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari has lashed out at the government's decision to privatize Air India, condemning the airline's performance under the Tata Group's management. He pointed to frequent flight cancellations and delays, often without explanations, as symptoms of broader managerial inefficiencies.

Tewari took to social media platform X, urging the Indian government to reassume control. He argued that professionals from other Tata subsidiaries, like Tata Tea and Tata Steel, are not adequately equipped to manage an airline, highlighting the need for experienced aviation professionals at the helm.

This criticism follows a disturbing Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) inspection that revealed 51 safety deficiencies in Air India's operations. The audit uncovered breaches in flight crew training, flight duty periods, and simulator use, besides discrepancies in digital record-keeping, potentially jeopardizing passenger safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)