Delhi High Court rejects Celebi Airport services’ plea against revocation of security clearance
Security clearance, revoked on May 15 by BCAS Director General, effectively halted Celebi's operations at several major Indian airports
PTC Web Desk: The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed the petition filed by Turkish-backed ground handling company Celebi Airport Services, challenging the cancellation of its security clearance by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The security clearance, revoked on May 15 by the BCAS Director General, effectively halted Celebi's operations at several major Indian airports and placed the future of over 10,000 employees at risk.
Justice Sachin Datta, while pronouncing the judgment, stated, “I’ve dismissed the petition,” putting an end to the legal challenge mounted by the firm.
The cancellation of Celebi’s security clearance came amid escalating diplomatic and military tensions between India and Turkey, particularly related to Turkey’s strategic ties with Pakistan. The move disrupted ground handling operations at nine key airports where Celebi provided services, forcing authorities to act swiftly to avoid service breakdowns.
In court, Celebi, represented by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, argued that the BCAS had overstepped its authority by issuing the cancellation order without adhering to due process under Rule 12 of the Civil Aviation Security Rules. Rohatgi insisted that the company was denied a fair hearing and that the order violated principles of natural justice.
“The DG does not have unilateral authority to revoke security clearance without following procedure. This decision violates Rule 12 and lacks any procedural justification. Natural justice isn’t just about issuing a show cause notice—it’s also about proposing intended action, which was not done,” Rohatgi submitted.
He further contended that Celebi had a constitutional right to operate its business in India and that the abrupt revocation had led to the cancellation of several service contracts, severely crippling its functioning.
However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, defended the government's decision. He said the cancellation was necessary due to national security concerns and that revealing the reasons would undermine the very intent of the action. Mehta also pointed out that during the renewal of its security clearance in November 2022, Celebi had agreed that such clearance could be withdrawn without explanation.
“The DG, BCAS possesses plenary powers unique to their position to act decisively in matters involving civil aviation security. These powers are not bound by the obligation of prior hearing when national safety is involved,” Mehta argued.