A day after its security clearance was revoked by the Centre citing national security reasons, Turkey-based aviation firm Celebi has approached the Delhi High Court challenging the decision. The Centre’s move had come in the wake of Turkey’s support for Pakistan during hostilities with India after Operation Sindoor.
On Thursday, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security had revoked the security clearance for the ground handling and cargo services provider, which serves nine major airports in India. The order had said that the security clearance was being cancelled “in the interest of national security”.
“Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd is a Turkey-based company that provides ground services at many airports in the country. Turkey had openly supported Pakistan. In view of the current situation, this has become an issue of national security. Keeping security in mind, Celebi has been banned in the country,” Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol had said.
On Friday, Celebi Airport Services India approached the Delhi High Court and challenged the Centre’s decision, claiming that “vague” national security concerns were cited without reasoning, a report by news agency Reuters said.
Seeking that the decision be set aside, the company argued that it would impact 3,791 jobs and investor confidence, claiming it was issued without any warning.