The Supreme Court of India has expressed frustration with the central government's failure to file an affidavit in response to a petition seeking regulatory guidelines for controlling unpredictable fluctuations in airfares and additional charges imposed by private airlines. Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta directed the Centre to explain the delay and the need for more time. The petition, filed by social activist S. Laxminarayanan, argues that the state cannot ignore the exploitative pricing practices prevalent during peak travel times, such as festivals, where ticket prices can surge significantly. The court had previously noted that such fluctuations are 'exploitative' and called for urgent judicial intervention to ensure that the government's inaction does not violate citizens' rights. The plea emphasizes the need for a robust regulatory framework to enhance transparency and protect passengers in the civil aviation sector.