Eviction order against ex-servicemen stayed

Through their counsel Jugal Wadhwa, the petitioners have contended that since the beginning the IAAI had been dealing with the petitioners in 8220;an arbitrary and discriminatory manner8221;. The DTC runs an ordinary non-AC service with the same charges. They alleged that to teach them a lesson for 8220;raising their voice8221;, the IAAI ordered them to vacate and hand over the booking counter latest by May 31.

The letter, which the ex-servicemen received on May 15, according to counsel Wadhwa did not state any reason for the 8220;hasty decision8221;. He pleaded through the petition that in spite of repeatedly approaching the IAAI to repeal its order, they had received no positive response. He also said that they were given no show-cause notice or opportunity to plead their case before being ordered to vacate their booking counter.

The petitioners therefore pleaded with the High Court to direct the IAAI and the civil aviation ministry to treat the ex-servicemen and the DTC at par in matter of payment and facilities. Justice Jaspal Singh in his order said that the 8220;grievance of the petitioner is that the Airport Authority of India has directed the petitioner to vacate and hand over possession of the booking counter without any without any show-cause notice and without any rhyme or reason.8221;

Justice Singh issued notice returnable on July 31 and till then 8220;held in abeyance8221; the operation of the IAAI order.