Delhi HC junks Turkish firm's plea against revocation of security clearance

The Delhi High Court on Monday rejected a set of petitions filed by Turkish-based aviation firm Celebi, which had challenged the withdrawal of its security clearance by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).

- MPOST BUREAU

The court said the action was justified due to "compelling national security considerations."

Justice Sachin Datta, delivering the 94-page verdict, stated that the decision to revoke security clearance was rooted in the need to safeguard national interests, particularly in the context of potential external threats.

"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, especially in the event of an external conflict," the judgment noted.

The BCAS had revoked Celebi's clearance on May 15, days after diplomatic tensions rose following Turkey's public support for Pakistan and criticism of India's military operations targeting terror Itions The companies under scrutiny Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd manage ground handling and cargo operations at several Indian airports. These operations grant extensive access to secure areas including aircraft, cargo facilities, and airside operations.