Turkish Firm Loses Security Clearance at Indian Airports Amid Operation Sindoor Backlash

Turkish firm Celebi Ground Handling India Private Limited has lost its security clearance for operating at nine Indian airports due to Turkey's support of Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The Civil Aviation Ministry revoked the clearance, citing national security concerns. Celebi handles critical airport operations, including ramp services, load control, and cargo services. The move comes amid backlash against Turkey, with Indian tourists cancelling trips to the country.

The Indian government has revoked the security clearance for Turkish ground handling firm Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd., citing national security concerns. The move follows Turkey's support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, a military response to a terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 dead [1]. The revocation affects Celebi's operations at nine major Indian airports, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Goa, Cochin, and Kannur [3].

Celebi, which handles critical airport operations such as ramp services, load control, and cargo services, had its security clearance revoked by the Directorate General of Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (DG, BCAS) [1]. The revocation order cited the company's association with Turkey, which has been a source of tension due to its support for Pakistan [1].

The decision comes amidst growing public pressure and a boycott campaign against Turkish firms in India. Shiv Sena, a political party, has been at the forefront of this campaign, urging authorities to cancel contracts with Turkish companies [2]. The move is part of a broader diplomatic and strategic counter-offensive by India against Turkey's support for Pakistan [1].

The revocation of Celebi's security clearance is likely to have significant implications for the aviation industry in India. The company's operations account for a substantial portion of ground handling services at several major airports, including Mumbai, where it handles around 70% of ground operations [1]. The loss of Celebi's services could lead to disruptions in airport operations and increased costs for airlines.

The Indian government has not yet made any official comment on Celebi's operations, but the growing public pressure suggests that authorities may be considering further action. The revocation of Celebi's security clearance is a significant development in the ongoing diplomatic and strategic tensions between India and Turkey.

References:
[1] https://m.economictimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/govt-revokes-security-clearance-for-turkish-ground-handling-firm-celebi-airport-services/articleshow/121190236.cms
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/shiv-sena-ban-turkish-firms-pakistan-support-125051200884_1.html
[3] https://www.business-standard.com/external-affairs-defence-security/news/why-is-turkish-firm-at-indian-airports-facing-heat-amid-india-pak-tensions-125051501378_1.html