By The Sampadak Express
Celebi Ground Handling India Pvt Ltd, the Turkish-linked firm managing key services at nine major Indian airports, has had its security clearance revoked by the Civil Aviation Ministry, citing national security concerns. The move follows Turkey’s vocal support of Pakistan in the aftermath of India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.
In a formal statement issued Thursday evening, the ministry announced, “The security clearance for Celebi Ground Handling India Private Limited is hereby revoked with immediate effect in the interest of national security.”
Additionally, Delhi International Airport has terminated ties with Celebi’s cargo management wing, Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India.
First Major Move Against Turkish Business Interests
This decision marks India’s first direct action against a Turkish business operating in the country. In recent years, New Delhi has deepened strategic and diplomatic engagement with nations historically at odds with Turkey, including Greece, Armenia, Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Celebi Responds: “Indian in Operation and Leadership”In response, Celebi Aviation emphasized its global and apolitical identity. “Celebi’s business in India is truly an Indian enterprise, led and managed by Indian professionals, deeply invested in the country, and committed to its growth,” the company said in a communique. It stressed that it is not a “Turkish organisation by any standard,” and operates with adherence to international corporate governance and transparency norms.
Government Justifies Move on Security Grounds
Junior Civil Aviation Minister Murlidhar Mohol stated, “Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd is a Turkey-based company that gives ground services at many airports. Turkey had openly supported Pakistan. In view of the current situation, this has become an issue of national security. Keeping security in mind, Celebi has been banned in the country.”
Turkey’s Deepening Ties With Pakistan Under ScrutinyIndia’s concerns stem not only from Turkey’s political statements but also from tangible military collaboration with Pakistan. Turkey-made drones including the Bayraktar TB2 and Asisguard SONGAR were reportedly among those used in attacks against Indian targets on the night of May 8. Additionally, Turkish military assets were detected in Karachi prior to and during Operation Sindoor, including a C-130 transport aircraft and a warship.
Boycott Turkey Campaign Gains Momentum
Public sentiment in India has turned sharply against Turkey. A widespread “Boycott Turkey” campaign is taking hold on social media, prompting Indian tourists to cancel travel plans. Several Indian universities, including Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi, have called off collaborations with Turkish educational institutions.
Trade groups, led by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), are also pushing for a complete economic boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan. A meeting to finalize this stand is scheduled in New Delhi tomorrow.
What Celebi Aviation Does in India
Celebi Aviation operates through two major entities in India:
Celebi Airport Services India:
Handles ground operations including ramp services, load control, flight operations, and bridge management.
Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India: Manages cargo and postal services at Delhi International Airport.
These operations are considered sensitive, involving close coordination with aircraft movement, safety systems, and secure cargo handling all of which fall under the ambit of national security.
