• Source:JND
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In a major setback for thr Turkish aviation firm, Celebi, the Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed its plea challenging the revocation of its security clearance by aviation watchdog Bureau of Civial Aviation Safety (BCAS) in the "interest of national security".

Justice Sachin Datta dismissed the petition by Celebi after the verdict was reserved on May 23. On May 15, BCAS revoked the security clearance of the Turkish firm, days after Istanbul backed Pakistan and condemned India's strikes on terror camps in the neighbouring country.

Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd oversee ground handling and cargo terminal functions at various airports in the country.

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The Central authority's advocate had defended the action, pointing out an "unprecedented" threat to aviation security. Meanhwhile, Celebi's counsel Mukul Rohtagi had contended that the Centre's move was against the principles of natural justice and was in violation of the procedure under the Aircraft Security Rules.

He said the Director General of BCAS ought to have given the petitioners a hearing after giving notice of "proposed punishment" and subsequently given reasons for their action.

Reacting to the reocation of clearance, the Centre, on May 19, said the decision was taken in the national security interest, in light of certain inputs that continuing the services of the petitioner companies would be hazardous in the current scenario.

ALSO READ: Centre Defends Revocation Of Celebi Aviation's Security Clearance In Delhi High Court

Celebi had been operating in the Indian aviation sector for over 15 years and employed over 10,000 people. It offered its services at nine airports.

BCAS, in its order, said, "... the security clearance in r/o Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd is hereby revoked with immediate effect in the interest of national security." The security clearance to the company, part of Turkey's Celebi, was given in November 2022.

(With PTI Inputs)