'Don't travel by air. Next case': SC judge on plea alleging 700% airfare hike
The Supreme Court of India dismissed a plea challenging a 700% hike in airfares, with a judge suggesting the petitioner simply avoid air travel. The government maintains a policy of allowing market forces to determine ticket prices.
Why it matters
This highlights the judicial stance on consumer protection versus free-market economic policies in the aviation sector.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday responded sharply to a plea highlighting a steep surge in airfares, with Justice Vikram Nath telling the counsel, “Don’t travel by air. Next case,” before moving on to the next matter.The exchange took place when the counsel mentioned the plea before the court, claiming that airfares had increased by as much as 700 per cent. Arguing that air travel was an essential service, the counsel said the steep rise in ticket prices amounted to a violation of Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law.“The airfares have increased to 700%. It is an essential service. Violation of Article 14,” the counsel submitted, according to Live Law.Justice Nath responded, “Don’t travel by air.
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