Court addresses non-compliance with earlier order allowing travel, seeks details on passenger amenities and communication mechanisms at Indira Gandhi International Airport
In a significant judgment delivered on September 2, 2026, the Delhi High Court, presided over by Justice Mini Pushkarna, addressed serious concerns arising from the alleged detention and inhumane treatment of a passenger at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. The matter stemmed from a petition filed by Paras Narsi, who claimed non-compliance with a previous court directive dated February 22, 2023, which had ordered the authorities to permit his travel to Ahmedabad, Gujarat, with all belongings.
The petitioner contended that despite the court's clear order, he was detained upon arrival at the airport and subjected to inhumane treatment, including denial of basic facilities such as food and lodging. The petitioner also highlighted that Air India Ltd. had failed to comply with an earlier direction dated May 24, 2023, which required the airline to file an affidavit explaining the communication mechanisms between passengers held by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) and airline officials.
Responding to these allegations, senior counsel representing Air India Ltd. assured the Court that the requisite affidavit would be filed within four weeks. However, the airline clarified that the detention itself was the responsibility of immigration authorities, distancing itself from the actual act of detaining the petitioner.
In contrast, the Central Government Standing Counsel for the immigration authorities denied any detention, stating that the petitioner was placed in the transit area and was free to move around within that space. This distinction prompted the Court to seek a detailed affidavit from the Union of India regarding the conditions and facilities available to passengers in the transit area. The affidavit was to specifically address whether essential amenities such as food and lodging are provided to passengers who are confined to the transit area for extended periods.
The Court's directive aims to ensure that passengers held in transit areas are treated humanely and have access to necessary facilities, thereby preventing any recurrence of the petitioner's ordeal. The respondents have been given four weeks to file their affidavits, with an additional week allowed for any replies. The matter is scheduled for further consideration on November 20, 2026, as part of the Top Ten Matters in the Advance List.
This judgment underscores the judiciary's commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of passengers, even in complex situations involving immigration control and airline operations. It also highlights the necessity for clear protocols and communication channels between various authorities to avoid human rights violations in transit areas.
Bottom Line:
Non-compliance with a prior judgment directing permission for travel - Court directs filing of affidavits regarding detention and facilities in the transit area by relevant authorities.
Statutory provision(s):
Contempt of Court
Paras Narsi v. Union of India, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2974582
