over concerns regarding national security, the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation said in an order on Thursday."The security clearance in r/o Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd, under the category Ground Handling Agency was approved by DG, BCAS vide letter no. 15/99/2022-Delhi-BCAS/E-219110 dated 21.11.2022. In the exercise of power conferred upon DG, BCAS, the security clearance in r/o Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd is hereby revoked with immediate effect in the interest of National Security. This issues with the approval of DG, BCAS," said government's order.

The move comes amid significant changes to Indo-Turkish relations after Turkey President Erdogan supported Pakistan on Kashmir. In response, India has undertaken a multi-pronged diplomatic and strategic counter-offensive, sharpening its foreign policy to engage with Turkey’s regional opponents and ally with bigger powers in the region.

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As per the company's website, Çelebi’s first step into India started off with a joint venture with a mandate to provide services at Mumbai International Airport. Within the last 10 years, the company now operations at a total of nine stations in India consisting of Mumbai, Delhi, Cochin, Kannur, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa(GOX) and Ahmedabad & Chennai.

Prior to the revocation, Celebi was managing 540,000 tons of cargo across 58,000 flights. At India's nine airports, Çelebi provides passenger services, load control and flight operations, and ramp services, ensuring smooth coordination and efficiency on the ground. The company also provides specialised support for general aviation, as well as cargo and postal handling. Additionally, Çelebi manages warehouse operations and bridge operation services, contributing to a seamless airport experience for both passengers and cargo.The Turkish company handles around 70% of the ground operations at Mumbai airport, including passenger services, load control, flight operations, cargo and postal services, warehouses and bridge operations.India has done a realignment of partnerships aimed at counterbalancing Turkish influence. This includes fostering closer ties with Turkey’s geopolitical and historical opponents: Greece, Armenia and Cyprus.