Overview

• India's aviation watchdog, BCAS, revoked the security clearance of Celebi’s ground-handling and cargo units on May 15, citing national security concerns based on classified intelligence inputs.
• The revocation followed Turkey’s recent support for Pakistan and criticism of India’s strikes on terror camps, raising geopolitical tensions.
• Celebi, operating in India for over 15 years with a strong safety record, argues the decision lacked prior notice or specific reasons and was influenced by public perception of Turkish ownership.
• Solicitor General Tushar Mehta defended the revocation, emphasizing the sensitivity of airport operations and the principle of prioritizing national security over proportionality.
• Justice Sachin Datta questioned the court's ability to review such national security decisions and deferred further hearings to May 21 to consider the matter in greater detail.