**Celebi Challenges Security Clearance Revocation in Delhi High Court**
**Meta Description:** Celebi Aviation contests the revocation of its security clearance in India, claiming procedural flaws and lack of due process.
**URL Slug:** celebi-security-clearance-delhi-hc
**Celebi Challenges Security Clearance Revocation in Delhi High Court**
Turkey-based Celebi Aviation has brought its case to the Delhi High Court, asserting that its security clearance was revoked without prior notice or an opportunity for a hearing. The company described the revocation as an unexpected decision, likening it to “a bolt out of the blue.” Celebi emphasized the necessity of a hearing in such matters, arguing that there are no exceptions to this legal requirement.
During the proceedings, Celebi’s Indian unit reiterated its status as an Indian company, with all employees being Indian nationals. “We are an Indian company, employees are Indian,” the firm stated in court.
Celebi Aviation is seeking to overturn the revocation of its security clearance, contending that the process was flawed and unjust. Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Celebi, argued before Justice Sachin Datta that the central government violated principles of natural justice, referencing Rule 12 of the Aircraft Security Rules, 2023.
Rohatgi highlighted that the law mandates an opportunity for the company to be heard, asserting that the central government cannot exempt itself from this obligation. He stated, “The maker of the Rule is not entitled to create exceptions to the Rule. You have to have reasons, and those reasons must be recorded in writing to eliminate subjectivity.”
Rohatgi also expressed concern over the government’s decision to submit the reasons for the revocation in a sealed cover, arguing that it keeps the other party uninformed. He speculated that the revocation might be linked to the shareholding being held by Turkish nationals.
In response, the central government opposed Celebi’s plea, claiming that disclosing the reasons for the revocation could jeopardize national interest, sovereignty, and security. Celebi’s plea also highlighted the potential impact of the decision on 3,791 jobs and investor confidence.
As the case unfolds, the implications of the court’s decision could significantly affect Celebi’s operations in India and the broader context of foreign investment in the country.
**FAQ**
**What is the main issue Celebi is facing in the Delhi High Court?**
Celebi is contesting the revocation of its security clearance, claiming it was done without proper notice or a hearing, which they argue violates legal procedures.
