Fri Mar 28 20:52:00 UTC 2025: ## Opposition Demands Airfare Cap Amidst Claims of “Exploitative” Pricing

**New Delhi, March 29, 2025** – Members of Parliament from various opposition parties are demanding government intervention to regulate soaring airfares, particularly impacting low-income migrant workers and travelers during peak seasons. The calls for action followed a Lok Sabha discussion on a private member’s resolution urging a cap on airfares and the creation of a quasi-judicial body to monitor pricing.

The resolution, moved by Congress leader Shafi Paramabil, highlighted the exorbitant costs faced by migrant workers in Gulf countries, who are often forced to pay significantly inflated prices, especially during holidays. Congress MP Dean Kuriakose cited a case where an off-season fare of ₹19,000 rose to ₹77,000 during peak season, emphasizing the need for reasonable fare regulation. He further suggested empowering the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) with quasi-judicial powers to penalize airlines for excessive pricing and urged investigation into potential cartel behavior.

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra echoed these concerns, advocating for airfare regulation during festivals and a reduction in last-minute ticket prices, which she said could be as high as ten times the original price. She also proposed fare discounts for senior citizens. Samajwadi Party MP Anand Bhadauria criticized the ineffectiveness of the DGCA’s current tariff monitoring unit.

While BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy defended airlines, citing factors like fuel costs, taxes, and aircraft leasing, opposition MPs argued that the current system is exploitative, particularly for low-income individuals. Independent MP Rajesh Ranjan criticized airport operators for high charges, drawing laughter with a comment suggesting free air travel during Hindu festivals. The discussion concluded with Congress leader K.C. Venugopal urging the government to address the issue of exorbitant airfares. The Rajya Sabha also debated a separate bill concerning aircraft leasing disputes.

Read More