AirAsia deal: Raise objections with ministries, HC tells Swamy

The Delhi High Court today suggested that BJP leader Subramanian Swamy approach the concerned ministries with his grievances relating to the USD 30 million deal between Malaysia-based AirAsia and Tata Sons.
A bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana made the observation during the hearing of a PIL when a lawyer appearing on behalf of Swamy sought a passover of the case on the ground that the BJP leader was on his way to the court from the airport.
"In the, meanwhile, why don't you go and raise your objections with them (ministries concerned)," the bench said to the counsel appearing on behalf of Swamy.

As Swamy could not attend the proceedings, the court adjourned the matter to January 23.
The BJP leader, in his plea, has sought a direction restraining the Centre from taking any decision or granting any other approval contrary to the applicable FDI policy and DGCA guidelines or granting any approval for foreign investment by a foreign airlines in a greenfield airline project.
Swamy had first moved the apex court which had asked him to withdraw the petition and approach the High Court.

In April this year, the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) gave clearance to the USD 30 million deal.

Swamy's PIL opposes clearance to the deal on the ground that according to government policy, foreign direct investment (FDI) up to 49 per cent is allowed in existing airlines which are already in operation and not to new or proposed joint ventures.
The policy was brought to boost the aviation industry which was undergoing financial crisis, the petition said.