The Indian government has taken a decisive stance by immediately revoking the security clearance of the Turkish ground handling service provider, Celebi Aviation, citing national security concerns. This move has been confirmed by an official directive.
This decision arrives amid strained relations between India and Turkey. Turkey's backing of Pakistan raised tensions, notably as it criticized India's anti-terror operations under Operation Sindoor.
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The BCAS has nullified the security clearance for Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd, initially granted as of November 21, 2022.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation sources, airports currently served by Celebi Aviation will coordinate with alternative ground handling agencies to manage interim operations. Tenders for new service providers will soon be issued.
Source: aajtak
Operating at Major Indian Airports
Celebi Aviation operated at nine significant airports, including sensitive ones like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, managing ground handling, cargo services, and airside operations.
Political Pressure and Public Outcry
Earlier, Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel urged the principal airport officer to revoke Celebi Aviation's operational permissions. He argued that Turkey's support for Pakistan makes the operation of related companies in India's sensitive areas a grave concern. Under Operation Sindoor, India had struck nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and PoK on May 7 in retaliation for an April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, resulting in 26 civilian casualties.
Public Discontent Towards Turkey and Azerbaijan
Turkey and Azerbaijan's support for Pakistan has incited public discontent in India. Calls for boycotts of Turkish products and tourism have surfaced, with travel platforms like EaseMyTrip, MakeMyTrip, and Ixigo advising against travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan. Meanwhile, Go Homestays has terminated its partnership with Turkish Airlines.
