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National security

India Revokes Security Clearance of Turkish Ground Handling Service Provider Over Kashmir Tensions

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As India-Ukraine diplomatic relations decline, India has come down hard on Turkey's Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd., revoking its security clearance and terminating its ground handling concession agreements with multiple airports. This follows a terrorist attack in Kashmir that left 26 tourists dead, prompting India's Operation Sindoor. Amidst the criticism, India's aviation regulator, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), stated that the decision was made to protect national security interest.

Key Takeaways:

  • The BCAS revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd. citing national security interest.
  • The Turkish ground handling service provider is accused of expressing solidarity with Pakistan, sparking widespread criticism.
  • Celebi claims it is not a Turkish organization but a company with international institutional investors from Canada, US, UK, Singapore, UAE, and Western Europe owning 65% of the stake.
  • The company was originally established in Turkey in 1958, and a Turkish family holds a 35% stake in the parent organization.
  • Celebi employs over 10,000 Indians, supporting the livelihood of thousands of families, and has invested over USD 220 million in infrastructure in India.
  • Puneet Lochan, President and CEO of GMR Airports, said "We will continue to provide seamless service to all airlines without disruptions through new ground handling agencies selected by us."
  • AAHL terminated the association with Chinese company DragonPass, which provided access to airport lounges, citing no impact on other customers.
  • The decision comes amid a broad decline in diplomatic relations between India and Turkey over Kashmir tensions.

Statistics:

  • 26 tourists were killed in a terrorist attack in Kashmir.
  • Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd. employs over 10,000 Indians.
  • The company has invested over USD 220 million in infrastructure in India.
  • Celebi was established in 1958 in Turkey.
  • The bureau revoked the security clearance of the Turkish ground handling service provider.

Sources:

  • "Indian National Press (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd."
  • "Contify.com"
  • A statement by AAHL.
  • A statement by Celebi Aviation India.

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