June 3, 2022: As India reports more and more new COVID cases, the Delhi HC has called for strict implementation of masks at airports and on flights. A Bench headed by acting Chief Justice (ACJ) Vipin Sanghi said that heavy fines should be imposed on those not wearing masks at airports and on aircraft. “The rules should be enforced. Violators should be removed physically if need be,” the Bench said.

Counsel for DGCA informed the court that relaxation to remove the mask has been provided only during meals.

The order said, “Necessary for respondents to ensure implementation on ground is effective. For this purpose, DGCA should issue separate binding guidelines authorising staff at airports, flights, captains, pilots, etc, to take strict action against passengers and others violating mask and hand hygiene norms. Such persons should be booked and fined and placed on a no-fly list.”

This came after a PIL was filed in the Delhi HC over violation of Covid norms in flights and at airports.

The ACJ said that the idea behind the mask mandate is to reduce the risk of Covid. “You can take your mask off when eating or drinking something. The requirement for masking in flights is already there in the norms,” the ACJ said.

Petitioner requested the court to consider bringing in an expert to consider the modalities. He said that while travelling he has observed that people don’t wear masks. “It's not being enforced,” he said.