IndiGo Airlines Faces Backlash from CPI(M) Leader Jayarajan
Kannur, Kerala, December 7th - A senior CPI(M) leader, E. P. Jayarajan, has once again voiced his concerns about IndiGo Airlines' operations, claiming the company has been heading in the wrong direction. This comes as a reaction to the recent disruptions in the airline's flight services.
Jayarajan's criticism stems from a personal experience. In July 2022, he and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan were involved in a scuffle with Congress workers on one of IndiGo's flights. As a result, Jayarajan was banned from flying with the airline for three weeks. This incident led him to publicly declare that he would no longer travel on IndiGo flights.
In an interview, Jayarajan expressed his disappointment, stating, 'I realized a long time ago that the company's stance against me indicated they were not on a positive path. Some Congress leaders in Delhi conspired with IndiGo, leading to my travel ban.'
Despite his personal ban, Jayarajan had to take an IndiGo flight to New Delhi when CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury passed away in 2024. He accused the central government's inaction, particularly the BJP-led administration, of being responsible for the ongoing issues with IndiGo.
Jayarajan's grievances extend beyond flight cancellations. He claims IndiGo is charging prices higher than authorized, taking advantage of peak seasons. He criticized the aviation ministry for failing to take any action.
Defending his stance, Jayarajan argued that his punishment was unjust, as he was punished for protecting the Chief Minister. He suggested that IndiGo should have recognized his actions as commendable and instead rewarded him.
When asked about his recent experience with IndiGo, Jayarajan revealed that he flew to Thiruvananthapuram on one of their flights last month. He called on the Union government and the aviation ministry to intervene and address the issues.
Jayarajan's message to IndiGo was clear: 'Correct your behavior and provide fair service. Prioritize the public and abandon the greed-driven approach.' He emphasized the need for a more customer-centric policy.