IndiGo Cuts Kunal Kamra’s Ban From 6 To 3 Months Following Orders From Delhi High Court

After his controversial encounter with journalist Arnab Goswami, IndiGo airlines banned stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra for six months for his ‘unacceptable behaviour’ onboard. Post which, a few other airlines also suspended him till further notice.

After releasing statements saying that he didn’t endanger the safety of any passenger on-board, Kunal also issued a legal notice to IndiGo airlines demanding an ‘unconditional apology, removal of ban and compensation of Rs. 25 lakhs’.

Kunal had moved the Delhi High Court seeking to revoke the ban imposed on him, reported India Today. Kunal in his petition said that he was banned by IndiGo for six months before its internal committee even arrived at a decision. He added that the ban cannot be imposed without a complaint, as required under Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). Kunal also added that other airlines had imposed an indefinite ban on him for no reason. An internal committee was set up that heard both parties and pursuant to its order, Kunal’s suspension has been reduced from six to three months, said Business Standard.

The Hindu reported that while hearing Kamra’s petition, the Delhi High Court also questioned the Directorate-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and said that they should have looked into Kamra’s complaint before initiating any action against him.

According to The Indian Express, Justice Navin Chawla said:

“Why did you (DGCA) give certification on Twitter? Look at your tweet. You said the action by the other airlines was in compliance of the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR).Not just IndiGo, you gave a certificate to the others also. You should withdraw your tweet.”

Justice Navin Chawla has asked the DGCA to formulate necessary actions to be taken in this regard and also raised concern over other airlines banning him.

In a statement, IndiGo said they will comply with the order of the internal committee. The statement read, “The internal matters committee after hearing both parties passed an order pursuant to which Kunal Kamra has been suspended from flying for a period of 3 months. IndiGo will comply with the order of the internal committee.”

Post the internal committee’s judgement, Kunal took to social media and released a statement in which he said he’s neither sorry nor regretful of his actions. He further added that people should ask Arnab Goswami for his comment on this matter. “Why hasn’t he commented and where is he hiding,” said Kunal.

Here’s his full statement:

Justice Navin Chawla, however, scrapped Kunal’s plea, saying that he should first approach DGCA and that the authority should decide his representation within eight weeks.

While we are on the lookout for more updates for you in this matter, tell us what you think about the entire issue.

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