Celebi moves Bombay HC over security nod withdrawal

Ground handling service provider Celebi NAS Airport Services India Pvt has approached the Bombay High Court, challenging the revocation of its security clearance. The company had moved Delhi High Court earlier.

As per the court website, apart from the central government, the local subsidiary of the Turkish company has also made the Director General of Civil Aviation, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and the Airport Authority of India respondents.

The company has also filed separate petitions against Mumbai International Airport (MIAL).


Celebi's local unit filed a writ petition under Article 226 of the Indian Constitution. An individual or a company can approach the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution for judicial intervention in ensuring fundamental rights.

An email query to Celebi remained unanswered till press time.

The Turkish company has filed a similar plea in the Delhi HC challenging the government's decision to revoke its security clearance. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the government, defended the move by citing national security concerns. "We are dealing with the most delicate subject of civil aviation and the sovereignty of the nation," Mehta said, referencing a letter from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. He said the ministry retains the exclusive right to revoke licences without assigning reasons under certain circumstances.

Mehta on Thursday told the Delhi HC that it is impossible for the government to give an opportunity of hearing or reasons for revoking the security clearance in an unprecedented situation when the country is under a security threat.

He told the HC that Celebi's representation was duly considered and the revocation order was passed the next day.

Mehta also contended that these ground and cargo handling companies have access to crucial airport and passenger data and thus revocation becomes necessary. "There is computer data which also includes VIP details, which aircraft is landing, etc. They have full access to all these details. "

The Delhi HC will resume the hearing on Friday.