Celebi Airport Services Challenges Security Clearance Revocation Impacting Thousands

Celebi Airport Services, a Turkish ground handling firm, is contesting the Indian government's decision to revoke its security clearance, which has affected over 10,000 employees. The company argues that it has no ties to the Turkish government and that the revocation violates legal protocols. The case, which highlights tensions between India and Turkey, is set to continue in court. Celebi's operations span several major Indian airports, and the government cites national security concerns as the basis for its actions. This legal battle raises questions about the implications for international business operations in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2025, 13:57 IST

Celebi's Legal Battle Over Security Clearance

The ground handling company Celebi, based in Turkey, informed the Delhi High Court on Wednesday that the Indian government's revocation of its security clearance has adversely affected over 10,000 employees in the country.

During the proceedings, Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Celebi, asserted to Justice Sachin Datta that the firm has no affiliations with the Turkish government and has maintained a conflict-free relationship with India.

Rohatgi emphasized, "Our workforce consists of Indians. We employ more than 10,000 individuals across various airports, and our operations have been conducted without any issues."

On May 16, Celebi Airport Services India filed a petition against the Union government's decision to revoke its security clearance, which was enacted amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

The revocation, which occurred on May 15, was justified by the government as a measure for national security, following public discontent regarding Turkish companies allegedly supplying arms to Pakistan.

During the hearing, Rohatgi contended that the government's actions were unlawful, citing the Aircraft Security Rules, 2023, which mandate that companies be given a chance to present their case before any security clearance is revoked.

He argued, "This is a violation of natural justice principles," and raised concerns about the government's decision to submit its reasons for the revocation in a sealed document, inaccessible to the company.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the government, responded that certain sensitive information could only be disclosed to the court, not to Celebi.

In a previous hearing, the government opposed Celebi's petition, stating that utilizing the company's services could pose a risk to national security.

Mehta explained that the operations of airport handling and cargo handling are highly sensitive, as personnel are familiar with every aspect of airport security.

Prior to the revocation, Celebi was actively providing services at multiple Indian airports, including those in Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Kannur, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mopa (Goa), Ahmedabad, and Chennai.

The solicitor general noted that the revocation was based on national security concerns as outlined in Rule 12 of the Aircraft Security Rules, which permits the cancellation of licenses if a potential threat is identified.

The court will continue to hear the case on Thursday.