New Delhi (Agency): In New Delhi, the Delhi High Court has ruled that SpiceJet Ltd, a popular low-cost airline, should pay 50% of its daily revenue collection to Kal Airways and its promoter Kalanithi Maran every week. This decision came on Wednesday.
Justice Yogesh Khanna, while addressing the case, moved the next hearing date from September 5 to August 24. He has also asked Ajay Singh, the Chairman and Director (CMD) of SpiceJet, to be present at this next hearing.
Due to the “willful default and lackadaisical attitude of SpiceJet and Singh”, the judge made this decision. He also asked them to give details about their money and property in a written statement, called an “affidavit”, within a week.
Senior Advocate Maninder Singh, speaking for Kal Airways, pointed out that SpiceJet and Singh have been repeatedly not following orders. He said, “It is just and fair that Spicejet and Singh should deposit 393 crores Approx.” He further asked that all the money be paid soon and proper records be kept.
On the other side, Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi admitted that SpiceJet had not followed the orders. He believed the issue should be discussed on the previously planned date, September 5. However, Justice Khanna mentioned that since the airline hasn’t followed the court’s instructions, it’s necessary to address the matter sooner.
Earlier, on July 24, the court had asked SpiceJet and Singh for an urgent hearing because the airline owes about Rs 390 crore based on a previous decision. The Supreme Court had also told SpiceJet to pay Rs 75 crore within three months. If they didn’t, the entire amount would have to be paid to Kal Airways and Maran.
Despite these orders, SpiceJet asked for more time. But the court noticed that this was just a way to delay payment. Singh highlighted that SpiceJet has not been respecting any court decisions. He said the airline had been asked before to provide details of its assets, but they haven’t done so.