India Ends Ties with Turkish Firm Çelebi Following Alleged Support for Pakistan
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In a significant move reflecting heightened national security concerns and growing diplomatic friction, India has revoked the security clearance of Turkish ground-handling company Çelebi Aviation. This decision has resulted in the termination of Çelebi's contracts at major Indian airports including Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) took the step citing “national interest” following reports of Turkey's alleged support for Pakistan during India’s recent counter-terrorism action, Operation Sindoor. The move has sparked a larger boycott campaign against Turkish firms in the country.
Çelebi has operated in India since 2008, handling ground services and cargo at nine airports, employing around 7,800 staff. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private operators like the Adani Group are now initiating alternative arrangements to ensure a smooth transition. Employees currently working under Çelebi contracts will reportedly be retained and transferred to new operators.
The Adani Group, which manages Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports, has not only ended its agreement with Çelebi but also cut ties with a Chinese lounge service provider in line with national policy favouring strategic autonomy and domestic control in critical infrastructure.
Political backlash has also intensified. In Mumbai, members of the Shiv Sena staged a protest at the airport, demanding the expulsion of all Turkish firms operating in Maharashtra. Party leaders asserted that Turkey’s support for Pakistan in matters of terrorism should not go unanswered.
Officials emphasised that airport operations across affected cities will continue without disruption. The government has assured the public that all ground-handling functions will be smoothly managed by new service providers and that passenger services will remain unaffected.
This decision underscores India’s firm stance on safeguarding sovereignty and taking diplomatic action against countries seen to be supporting anti-India activities.
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