Today, On 7th July, The Delhi High Court has dismissed Turkish company Çelebi’s petition challenging the revocation of its security clearance. The clearance was withdrawn after Turkey’s controversial remarks during India’s Operation Sindoor drew sharp criticism.
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court dismissed the petitions filed by the Turkish company Celebi regarding the revocation of its security clearance.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Safety (BCAS) revoked this clearance on May 15, shortly after Turkey expressed support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor and criticized India’s strikes on terrorist camps in the neighbouring nation.
The Centre stated on May 19 that the decision was made in the interest of national security, citing certain inputs that suggested continuing the services of the petitioner companies could pose risks in the current circumstances.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the central authority, defended the decision, highlighting an “unprecedented” threat to aviation security.
Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, representing Celebi, argued that the Centre’s action violated principles of natural justice and did not adhere to the procedures outlined in the Aircraft Security Rules.
He argued that the company has faced severe penalties without adequate explanation regarding the reasons for such actions, which he claimed violates procedural protections outlined in Rule 12 of the Aircraft Rules, 2023. He asserted that the firm should have received proper notice before facing these measures.
He stated,
“The notice must specify the proposed punishment based on the core facts. It is not an open-ended authority. Provide written reasons, not just those kept in your mind,”
He contended that the Director General of BCAS should have granted the petitioners a hearing following a notice of the “proposed punishment” and provided reasons for their actions.
Justice Sachin Datta had reserved the verdict on May 23 after hearing arguments in the case.
Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd handle ground operations and cargo terminal functions at multiple airports across the country.
Celebi has been working in India’s aviation sector for over 15 years and has more than 10,000 employees. It offers services at nine airports across the country.
In light of the May 15 revocation, the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) terminated its contracts with Celebi.
In Mumbai, the domestic operator Indothai has been appointed to take over the company’s ground handling services.
Celebi has also filed a petition challenging these actions before the Bombay High Court.
Senior Advocates Sandeep Sethi and Darpan Wadhwa, along with Advocate Ritu Bhalla (Partner) from Luthra & Luthra, represented Celebi.
Additionally, the Union government was represented by Solicitor General Mehta and Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma.
Case Title: CELEBI AIRPORT SERVICES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED v/s UNION OF INDIA & ORS., W.P.(C) 6758/2025 and CM APPL.30662/2025
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