In a statement released on the Government of India’s Press Information Bureau, Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Ram Mohan Naidu said nothing is above national security, adding that national interest and public safety “are paramount and non-negotiable.”
The statement says that the Ministry of Civil Aviation is fully committed to ensuring that passenger convenience, cargo operations and service continuity are unaffected.
Arrangements have been made at the affected airports to handle passengers and cargo, the statement added.
Naidu is quoted in the statement saying: “We are also deploying special teams to oversee operations and address any emerging issues in real time. We will continue to uphold national security while ensuring ease of travel and cargo movement across the country.”
In response, Celebi has released a statement saying they are monitoring the situation and cooperating with relevant authorities.
Celebi said: “We would like to emphasise that all our operations have always been conducted in strict compliance with the relevant legal requirements. In all countries where we operate, we possess valid licences and fully comply with applicable security regulations.”
The handler said it did not receive any warnings or penalties related to national security matters.
The statement added that Celebi is taking necessary measures to protect the rights of its employees, ensure the sustainability of working conditions and minimise the impact of developments to its workforce.
The national security concern that resulted in Celebi’s licence getting suspended has not been disclosed and Celebi is challenging the decision in court, saying the vague claims are not sustainable in law.
