Turkish Firm Celebi Challenges Security Clearance Revocation in Delhi HC, Cites 10,000 Job Losses
Key Developments:
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Celebi Airport Services India claims revocation affects 10,000 Indian employees
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Company denies links to Turkish government
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Court hears arguments on natural justice violation
Court Proceedings:
Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Celebi, told Justice Sachin Datta:
✓ “Our entire workforce consists of Indian nationals”
✓ “We’ve operated successfully at multiple airports without issues”
✓ “Government violated natural justice by not giving us a hearing”
Government’s Position:
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta defended the May 15 decision:
• Cited national security concerns under Aircraft Security Rules 2023
• Argued airport handling services require highest security standards
• Submitted sensitive details in sealed cover to court
Background:
The security clearance revocation came amid:
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Rising India-Pakistan tensions
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Reports of Turkish arms sales to Pakistan
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Celebi’s operations at 9 major Indian airports including Delhi and Mumbai
Legal Arguments:
Rohatgi contested:
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Lack of prior notice or hearing
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Sealed cover procedure preventing proper defense
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Apparent discrimination based solely on Turkish ownership
Next Steps:
Court to consider:
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Whether revocation followed due process
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Balance between national security and business interests
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Potential impact on employees and airport operations
Company Operations Affected:
Celebi previously handled ground services at:
• Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru airports
• Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai
• Goa’s Mopa airport, Kannur, Ahmedabad