ThePrint National Interest Pod: IndiGo’s greatest ‘crime’ is letting Indian govt appear as private sector’s saviour
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Dec 13, 2025 The discussion dives into IndiGo's handling of a recent crisis, highlighting colossal incompetence. The failure not only brings accountability on IndiGo but also lets the government emerge as a perceived savior. Critics point to inappropriate government micromanagement and public interventions by ministers. Historical insights are shared, reflecting on public accountability and past ministerial resignations. The conversation raises concerns about the implications of such a dynamic for the aviation sector's future.
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Three Public Reactions To The IndiGo Crisis
- IndiGo's meltdown prompts three common reactions: arrogance of management, daring to challenge government, and fear of inviting state control.
- Shekhar Gupta argues the real consequence is restoring government influence over private aviation.
Minister's Public Intervention Risks Micromanagement
- The minister publicly stepped in, threatening CEO removal and summoning him for humiliation rather than letting the company lead the response.
- Gupta warns this makes the government appear as savior and risks micromanaging a private success story.
Regulator Presence Equals Accountability-Free Control
- Officers from DGCA were placed inside IndiGo, creating accountability-free micromanagement and regulatory overreach.
- Gupta links onerous crew-rest rules to regulation made without stakeholder buy-in that invited discretion and exceptions.