Delhi HC rejects Celebi’s plea against security clearance revocation

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed a plea by Turkish-based firm Celebi challenging the revocation of its security clearance by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), citing national security concerns.

Justice Sachin Datta delivered the verdict after reserving it on May 23. The BCAS had withdrawn Celebi’s clearance on May 15, shortly after Turkey publicly supported Pakistan and condemned India’s military strikes on terror camps across the border.

Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd, which manage ground handling and cargo operations at several Indian airports, had argued that the revocation violated principles of natural justice and procedural norms under the Aircraft Security Rules. Their counsel contended that the Director General of BCAS failed to issue a notice or provide an opportunity for a hearing before taking action.

The Centre defended the move, citing an “unprecedented” threat to aviation security. In a May 19 statement, it said the decision was based on intelligence inputs indicating that allowing Celebi to continue operations could pose a risk in the prevailing security environment.

Celebi has operated in India for over 15 years, employing more than 10,000 people and providing services at nine airports. The company’s security clearance, granted in November 2022, was revoked with immediate effect. The BCAS order stated the action was taken “in the interest of national security”.