‘How Did This Precipitate?’ Delhi HC Asks Centre Amid IndiGo Crisis

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday pulled up the Central government over the large-scale disruption of IndiGo flights, asking how the situation was allowed to deteriorate to the point where thousands of passengers were left stranded at airports across the country.

A division bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela made the observation while hearing a public interest litigation seeking relief for affected passengers. The plea has urged the Union government to ensure adequate ground support as well as timely refunds amid the airline’s operational breakdown.

“We appreciate the steps taken by the Ministry and the DGCA. However, what bothers us is how such a situation was allowed to precipitate, leaving lakhs of passengers unattended at airports,” the bench remarked.

The judges added that the impact of such a crisis “is not confined merely to inconvenience to passengers, but also affects the country’s economy, as fast and efficient passenger movement is an essential component of economic functioning today.”

During the hearing, counsel for the Centre submitted that the crisis stemmed from multiple non-compliances by the airline, including violations relating to crew flight duty hours and other guidelines issued by authorities.

The Centre and the DGCA told the court that the existing regulatory framework was fully operational, and that a show-cause notice had been served on IndiGo, which has since issued an unconditional apology.

The bench also expressed dissatisfaction with the manner in which the petition had been filed, observing that it “lacks adequate research, evidence and statutory backing for the relief sought.” However, it added that “given the public interest involved, we have taken cognisance.”

Seeking detailed responses from all respondents, the High Court listed the matter for further hearing on January 22, 2026.

Case Title: Akhil Rana & anr v Union of India & ors

Bench: Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Tushar Rao Gedela

Date: 10 December 2025