Supreme Court rules Air India's privatisation ends state oversight, employee appeals dismissed

SC on Air India: In a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court of India has declared that Air India Limited (AIL) sheds its state affiliations post-privatisation, ushering in a new era for the iconic airline. This ruling came as the apex court dismissed appeals lodged by AIL employees challenging a Bombay High Court decision from September 2022.

The High Court had disposed of four writ petitions filed by employees, citing issues ranging from stagnant pay to promotion delays. These petitions alleged violations of constitutional rights concerning equality and personal liberty, prompting a legal battle that reached the nation's highest court.

Emphasising the impact of AIL's privatization by the Tata Group in January 2022, the Supreme Court underlined that the airline no longer falls under the purview of state control. With the government's divestment of its entire stake to Talace India Pvt Ltd, AIL's transition to a private entity is now legally affirmed.

The court's ruling highlights a shift in jurisdiction, as AIL's change in status precludes it from being subject to writ jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution. While acknowledging the grievances of the appellants, the Supreme Court upheld the High Court's decision, signalling the necessity for seeking alternative remedies in light of AIL's privatised status.

(With PTI Inputs)