The Delhi High Court, on Wednesday, expressed its displeasure over the stance of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding fraud allegations against the Drone Federation of India (DFI). The court remarked that DGCA should have filed a police complaint in the matter but failed to do so.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela directed DGCA, MCA, and other relevant departments to submit separate reports on the progress of the investigation. The court has scheduled a detailed hearing for March 19, 2025.
How Was the Fraud Uncovered?
During the hearing, lawyers representing the central government ministries informed the court that they had also received complaints regarding the matter and were taking it seriously. They revealed that MCA had raised doubts about the authenticity of the ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC) submitted by DFI and had referred the matter to DGCA for verification. Following this, an inspection was conducted, which eventually led to a full-fledged investigation.
Senior advocate P.V. Dinesh, representing petitioner and RTI activist Tej Pratap Singh, alleged that DFI fabricated a fake NOC to bypass legal restrictions and enhance its credibility. This forged document was submitted to MCA, creating the false impression that the organization had government approval.
Allegations of Issuing Fake Licenses
The PIL further claims that DFI, in collusion with Pioneer Flying Academy, issued drone pilot certificates to two individuals without proper authorization. These certificates were allegedly issued without the approval of DGCA and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, allowing these pilots to operate drones in Dubai during the Indian Premier League (IPL).
A senior official from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) reportedly wrote to DGCA seeking verification of these certificates. However, DGCA neither initiated an investigation nor cooperated with the Dubai authorities.
Unauthorized Drone Flying in a Restricted Zone
The petition also alleges that DFI not only evaded scrutiny but also organized an event called “Bharat Drone Shakti” at the Hindon Air Force Station in Uttar Pradesh. During this event, drones were operated by unlicensed pilots in a ‘Red Zone,’ where flying drones without special permission is strictly prohibited.
Serious Allegations and Demand for a CBI Probe
The petitioner argues that DFI forged government documents to present itself as an official entity operating under government authority, misleading the public and violating crucial safety and regulatory norms in the drone industry. Due to the gravity of the allegations, the petitioner has demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the matter.
Protests at Jantar Mantar
The petition also mentions that after receiving no concrete action from the concerned departments, the petitioner organized a protest at Jantar Mantar. During the protest, officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA assured prompt action. However, no substantial steps have been taken so far, prompting the court to intervene.
All eyes are now on the next hearing scheduled for March 19, 2025, where the court will decide the course of action and whether the case should be handed over to the CBI for further investigation.
