New Delhi:
A day after the Center canceled its safety approval, citing national security reasons, the Turkish -based aviation firm Celebi approached the Delhi High Court and challenged the verdict. The Center came to the Center in view of Türkiye’s support for Pakistan during enmity with India after Operation Sindoor.
On Thursday, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security canceled the security approval for ground handling and cargo services provider, which works on nine major airports in India. The order had said that security clearance was being canceled “in the interest of national security”.
“Celebi Airport Services India Private Limited is an Turkish-based company that provides ground services at many airports in the country. Turkey openly supported Pakistan. It has become an issue of national security in view of the current situation. Keeping in mind the security, the Celebi has been banned in the country,” said the Minister of State for Civil Aviation.
A report by the news agency said that on Friday, Celi Airport Services India approached the Delhi High Court and challenged the Center’s verdict, claiming that “vague” national security concerns were quoted without logic.
Knowing that the decision was kept aside, the company argued that it would affect 3,791 jobs and the trust of investors. It was also claimed that the order was issued without any warning.
Responding to the Center’s announcement on Thursday, the company said that it is not a Turkish organization and there is no relation with any foreign government.
“Celebi business in India is actually an Indian enterprise, headed by Indian professionals, has been deeply invested in the country, and is committed to its development. We are not a Turkish organization by any standard and fully follow the accepted practices of corporate administration, transparency, and neutrality, any political relationship with any foreign government or persons with any political relations or links.”
“Celebi Aviation is a global company with a heritage of more than 65 years in aviation services, providing ground handling and cargo operations in three Mahadivas and six countries. As we continue to expand into emerging aviation markets, our missions are constantly to make a unique contribution in the aviation sector, national economies and local workforce.
India gave security approval to the company in November 2022 and according to its website, it handled around 58,000 flights and 5.4 lakh tonnes of cargo every year in India, including Delhi, Bengaluru and Goa at nine airports.
