Didn’t weigh business impact: Ixigo MD on halting Turkey bookings
In the midst of the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, travel booking platform Ixigo suspended all bookings to Azerbaijan and Turkey on its platform. The decision sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the impact on the company’s business. In an exclusive interview with Moneycontrol, Ixigo MD Aloke Bajpai opened up on the decision, emphasizing that the business impact was not a primary consideration.
“We didn’t think too much about the business impact,” Bajpai said. “It was the right thing to do as an Indian. We can’t compromise on our values and principles, and we have to be mindful of the sentiments of our customers and the country we operate in.”
The decision to halt bookings was taken in the wake of the Indian government’s advisory asking its citizens to avoid travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan. The travel restrictions were imposed amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, which have been simmering for months.
Ixigo’s decision to suspend bookings was seen as a bold move, especially considering the potential financial implications. However, for Bajpai, the decision was a no-brainer. “I wouldn’t feel very safe traveling to countries who have supported our enemy states,” he said. “As a responsible corporate citizen, we have to take a stand and support our country’s stance on these issues.”
Ixigo’s decision to suspend bookings was also seen as a blow to the travel industry, which has been struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The industry has been reliant on international travel, and the suspension of bookings to Azerbaijan and Turkey is expected to have a significant impact on businesses that operate in these markets.
However, Bajpai believes that the decision was necessary to maintain the trust and confidence of Ixigo’s customers. “We have to be mindful of the sentiments of our customers and the country we operate in,” he said. “We can’t compromise on our values and principles, and we have to take a stand on issues that are important to our customers.”
Ixigo’s decision to suspend bookings was also seen as a reflection of the changing dynamics of the travel industry. With the rise of online booking platforms, travelers have more options than ever before, and companies like Ixigo are under pressure to deliver on their promises.
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, companies like Ixigo are faced with the challenge of balancing their business interests with their social and moral responsibilities. In the case of Ixigo, the decision to suspend bookings to Azerbaijan and Turkey was seen as a bold move, but one that was necessary to maintain the trust and confidence of its customers.
As the world grapples with the complexities of globalization, companies like Ixigo are being forced to adapt to changing circumstances. The decision to suspend bookings was a reflection of the company’s commitment to its values and principles, and its willingness to take a stand on issues that are important to its customers.
In conclusion, Ixigo’s decision to suspend bookings to Azerbaijan and Turkey was a bold move that reflected the company’s commitment to its values and principles. While the decision may have had significant financial implications, Bajpai believes that it was the right thing to do as an Indian. As the world continues to grapple with the complexities of globalization, companies like Ixigo will be forced to adapt to changing circumstances, and make difficult decisions that balance their business interests with their social and moral responsibilities.
Source: https://x.com/moneycontrolcom/status/1923369108411994354
