Air India fare hike for Gulf workers criticised

New Delhi, Aug 11 (UNI) Air India's fare pattern today came under scrutiny in the Rajya Sabha when senior Congress Member PJ Kurien demanded governments intervention to end the ''discrimination'' made by the airline between Indian workers in Gulf countries and those in European Nations in fare charges.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour, Mr Kurien said it was unfortunate that for Indians in Europe, who were well-paid, the Air India charges were much lower than those for Gulf workers, who were mostly poor people.

During the Onam festival, the Airlines increased fare by Rs 200 per person every year, which was very unfair.

''Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed is present, and through him, I request the Government to pay immediate attention to the matter,'' he said.

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