Called two difference agents on the AC tech support line (India) to play the "can book my fare class online" game to avoid paying the reservation fee. Both times I was told that they could absolutely not transfer me to the reservation centre and I'd basically have to call myself. They were very insistent despite repeasted cajoling that they could not transfer me.

After the second no-go, I gave up in frustration and tried the French line. Based on the way the call was routed, the person's name (non-Indian, non-French) and calibre of their French, I believe I was again sent to India. This time, after a brief conversation in French, the agent said "may I transfer you to the reservations centre to look after this
booking".

Why can I get what I want/need if I speak French but not English?