Turkey-based airport ground handling company Celebi Airport Services India has filed a legal petition against the Indian government’s decision to revoke its security clearance, citing vague national security concerns without clear justification. The move comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, and growing public anger in India over Turkey’s perceived support for Pakistan.
In its petition submitted to the Delhi High Court on May 16, Celebi argued that the revocation, made “in the interest of national security,” was issued without prior warning and lacks concrete reasoning. The company warned the decision could jeopardize nearly 3,800 jobs and damage investor confidence. Celebi emphasized that although its shareholders are registered in Turkey, the majority ownership and control belong to globally recognized companies with no Turkish origin or incorporation.
The Indian government has yet to comment on the lawsuit, which is expected to be heard soon. The decision follows protests by Shiv Sena, a political ally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party, demanding Mumbai’s airport cut ties with Celebi due to Turkey’s stance on the India-Pakistan conflict.
The regional tensions escalated after India struck what it called “terrorist camps” in Pakistan in retaliation for an attack in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people. Pakistan denied involvement. Both nations exchanged missile and drone attacks before a ceasefire was reached.
In response to the conflict, Turkey and Azerbaijan publicly supported Pakistan. Additionally, Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi suspended its academic partnership with Turkey’s Inonu University citing national security concerns. Separately, Adani Airport Holdings ended its agreement with Chinese lounge service DragonPass without giving details.
