By Firstdespatch Desk Jun 23, 2023
Agartala, Jun 23 (FD) The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has issued a notice to Indigo Airlines, a privately run carrier, in response to allegations of deceptive practices and exploitation of air passengers. The notice, issued by THRC Chairman Justice (Retired) Swapan Chandra Das, seeks a reply from the airline regarding their recent change in luggage regulations.
Previously, Indigo Airlines allowed passengers to carry a handbag weighing 7 kg and luggage weighing 15 kg free of charge. However, the airline recently implemented a new policy requiring the 15 kg of luggage to be packed into a single bag. Passengers are now charged Rs. 1,000 for each additional bag used to distribute the luggage.
This rule has caused significant inconvenience and financial burden to passengers, as the weight limit remains the same but must now be accommodated within a single bag. Many passengers have fallen victim to this new regulation, resulting in additional charges.
Airport sources, aware of the situation, suggest that Indigo Airlines unlawfully transports various types of cargo in the vacant spaces left after loading single-bag luggage, earning illicit profits.
In another case, a company outsourced by the Airport Authority of India (AAI) has been unlawfully charging additional fees for vehicles entering the airport. These charges are imposed if the vehicles exceed five minutes for passenger and luggage disembarkation. The fees range from Rs 15 to Rs 100 for every extra minute, even though the allotted time of five minutes is insufficient, particularly when transporting elderly, physically or mentally challenged passengers, as well as outbound patients seeking medical treatment. The lack of easy access to wheelchairs and trolleys often leads to delays, resulting in additional charges. The revenue earned through this unlawful practice is shared between the dubious outsourced company and the AAI authority.
The THRC has taken suo motto action in both cases and has issued notices to the AAI and Indigo Airlines. While the AAI has provided a weak and indefensible response, Indigo Airlines has yet to submit a proper reply to the human rights commission's notice.
Over the past 1–1.5 years, the THRC has taken up 189 cases, with 180 being suo motto cases based on newspaper reports. The commission has successfully provided relief to victims of crimes such as rape, arson, and assault. The THRC has recommended appropriate action to the state government and the payment of compensation to victims. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, the state government has duly compensated proven victims in almost all the cases where compensation was recommended.
The Tripura Police Accountability Commission, comprising retired police officer B.K. Roy, retired IAS officers Y. Kumar and G.K. Rao, recently retired IAS officer L.H. Darlong, and retired judicial officer Subir Saha, has also been actively involved in reviewing cases. The THRC continues to work towards upholding human rights and seeking justice for victims in Tripura. FD SB JK