Turkish Aviation Firm Celebi Challenges India’s ‘Vague’ Security Clearance Revocation
The security clearance was revoked amid Türkiye's support for Pakistan.
Turkiye-based Celebi Airport Services India has filed a legal challenge in the Delhi High Court against the Indian government’s decision to revoke its security clearance, citing “vague” national security concerns without proper justification.
The company argues that the government’s order merely references “national security” without elaborating on how Celebi poses a threat, which it claims is legally unsustainable and lacks substantive reasoning.
Celebi also highlighted that the revocation was done without prior notice and warned that it could jeopardise 3,791 jobs and undermine investor confidence.
The case filed by Turkish aviation firm Celebi Airport Services India challenging the Indian government’s revocation of its security clearance was filed on May 16, 2025
The revocation came amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with Turkiye openly supporting Pakistan during the conflict.
This stance fueled public and political pressure in India, including protests by the Shiv Sena party demanding Mumbai’s airport sever ties with Celebi.
India’s junior aviation minister, Murlidhar Mohol, stated the government acted after receiving widespread requests to ban Celebi in the interest of national security.
Celebi clarified in its court filing that although its shareholders are registered in Turkiye, the majority control lies with entities not incorporated or originating from Turkiye.
The company has been providing ground handling services at major Indian airports, including New Delhi, Kerala, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Goa. Before starting operations, it underwent prior security and background checks by Indian intelligence agencies.
Following the revocation, Delhi Airport officially ended its association with Celebi for ground handling and cargo operations.
Additionally, reports indicate that Air India is lobbying to block a leasing arrangement between IndiGo and Turkish Airlines, citing security concerns linked to Turkiye’s support for Pakistan.
The case is expected to be heard soon in the Delhi High Court, with Celebi seeking to have the revocation decision set aside/
