In a major setback for ground handling firm Celebi Airport Services India Private Limited, the Delhi High Court has dismissed the company’s pleas to overturn a government order revoking its security clearance, citing overriding national security interests.
The decision comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, an internal investigation reportedly linked to concerns about foreign involvement in sensitive aviation operations. The court stated there were “compelling national security considerations” that had “impelled” the Ministry of Civil Aviation to act.
In its judgment, the High Court underlined the potential risks posed by dual-use logistics and the threat of espionage, particularly in times of external conflict.
“There is a necessity to eliminate the possibility of espionage and/or dual use of logistics capabilities which would be highly detrimental to the security of the country,” the court said.
The government revoked Celebi’s security clearance on 15 May with immediate effect, citing concerns over national security. The move followed growing political and public scrutiny of the Turkey-based firm, particularly after Ankara expressed support for Pakistan during heightened tensions between India and its neighbour.
The ruling by the Delhi High Court is expected to influence parallel legal proceedings brought by Celebi in other jurisdictions, including ongoing challenges to contract cancellations in the Madras, Bombay and Gujarat High Courts.
