Delhi HC upholds CCI decision of Vistara-Air India merger
AVIATION & AIRPORTS

Delhi HC upholds CCI decision of Vistara-Air India merger

The Delhi High Court has rejected a petition against the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) approval of the merger of Tata SIA Airlines, operating as Vistara, with Air India. The petition was filed by Captain Deepak Kumar, a former Air India pilot, who alleged cartelisation and bid rigging in the merger. However, the antitrust watchdog had dismissed his plea in December, citing the absence of substantive evidence.

Kumar then moved the High Court, alleging that the Commission passed the order without conducting any inquiry. Justice Sanjeev Narula, while upholding the CCI?s order, noted that Kumar's plea contained numerous unsubstantiated and reckless allegations not supported by evidence and appeared to be driven by malice.

"The claims are made without any regard for truth and appear to be designed to manipulate or mislead. This approach not only discredits the Petitioner?s credibility but also burdens the legal system unnecessarily. Therefore, in the court?s view, given the absence of any substantiated claims and the apparent malicious intent behind the allegations, the present petition lacks merit,? the court stated.

The High Court also observed that Kumar's petition included "numerous unsubstantiated, wild, and scandalous allegations against the Prime Minister and a former Chief Justice of India," none of which were supported by documentary evidence.

In November 2022, the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines announced their plan to merge Vistara into Air India, which would give the Tata Group at least a 51% stake in the merged entity. Singapore Airlines would hold a minority stake of 25.1%. (Source: ET)

The Delhi High Court has rejected a petition against the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) approval of the merger of Tata SIA Airlines, operating as Vistara, with Air India. The petition was filed by Captain Deepak Kumar, a former Air India pilot, who alleged cartelisation and bid rigging in the merger. However, the antitrust watchdog had dismissed his plea in December, citing the absence of substantive evidence. Kumar then moved the High Court, alleging that the Commission passed the order without conducting any inquiry. Justice Sanjeev Narula, while upholding the CCI?s order, noted that Kumar's plea contained numerous unsubstantiated and reckless allegations not supported by evidence and appeared to be driven by malice. The claims are made without any regard for truth and appear to be designed to manipulate or mislead. This approach not only discredits the Petitioner?s credibility but also burdens the legal system unnecessarily. Therefore, in the court?s view, given the absence of any substantiated claims and the apparent malicious intent behind the allegations, the present petition lacks merit,? the court stated. The High Court also observed that Kumar's petition included numerous unsubstantiated, wild, and scandalous allegations against the Prime Minister and a former Chief Justice of India, none of which were supported by documentary evidence. In November 2022, the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines announced their plan to merge Vistara into Air India, which would give the Tata Group at least a 51% stake in the merged entity. Singapore Airlines would hold a minority stake of 25.1%. (Source: ET)

Next Story
Resources

Madhya Pradesh Champions Inclusive Tourism at Heritage Sites

On the occasion of World Heritage Day, Madhya Pradesh is taking a significant step toward inclusive tourism by making its historical sites accessible to all — especially persons with disabilities. The state is rolling out its ‘Accessibility Infrastructure and Development’ project at Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha, aiming to create a more welcoming experience at these iconic cultural destinations.The initiative, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, includes infrastructure upgrades such as ramps, Braille signage, w..

Next Story
Resources

Runwal Realty Onboards Sonam Kapoor as Brand Ambassador

Real estate major Runwal has unveiled a refreshed identity as Runwal Realty, signalling a renewed commitment to crafting spaces that stand the test of time. With this refresh, the brand unveils its new philosophy: “Building for Generations to Come” and welcomes Bollywood star and global fashion icon Sonam Kapoor as its brand ambassador. This evolved identity reflects Runwal Realty’s commitment to creating not just homes, but heirlooms—crafted through visionary design, meticulous planning, global design expertise and an unwavering focus on quality. With the customer at its core, each de..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025: KPMG

KPMG’s latest report, The Great Reset: Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025 edition, sheds light on the profound changes transforming the global infrastructure landscape. As industries adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, economic pressures, and technological advancements, the report identifies key trends and provides actionable insights for leaders in infrastructure and transport sectors. “In today’s interconnected world, the lack of standardized supply chain practices is not just an operational challenge—it’s an environmental and economic one. We’..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?