Celebi Aviation gets a big blow from Delhi High Court, Turkiye company's petition against cancellation of security clearance rejected:

News Topical, Digital Desk : The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed a petition filed by Turkey-based company Celebi challenging the cancellation of its security clearance. Aviation watchdog BCAS had cancelled the company's security clearance in the interest of national security. Justice Sachin Dutta had reserved the verdict in the case on May 23.

Security clearance was revoked on May 15

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) had revoked the security clearance on May 15. Days before this, Turkiye had supported Pakistan and condemned India's attacks on terror camps in the neighbouring country.

What does Celebi Aviation do?

'Celebi Airport Services India Private Limited' and 'Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Private Limited' oversee the ground handling and cargo terminal operations at various airports in the country.

Had pointed towards unprecedented danger

The central authority's counsel had defended the action, pointing to an "unprecedented" threat to aviation security. Celebi's counsel had argued that the Centre's move was against the principles of natural justice and violated the procedure under the aircraft security rules. He said the Director General of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security should have heard the petitioners after informing them of the "proposed penalty" and then given reasons for his action.

Working for more than 15 years

The Centre said on May 19 that the decision to revoke the approval was taken in the interest of national security as it was learnt that it would be dangerous to continue the services of the petitioner companies in the current scenario. Celebi has been operating in the Indian aviation sector for over 15 years and employs over 10,000 people. It provides its services at nine airports.