Shiv Sena Pushes Mumbai Airport to Cut Ties with Turkish Firm Over Security Concerns
Mumbai, 14th May 2025: In a move reflecting growing national security concerns, Shiv Sena leader Murji Patel on Monday spearheaded a delegation to the Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), demanding an immediate end to the airport authority’s partnership with Celebi NAS Airport Services. The Turkish firm currently oversees roughly 70% of the ground handling operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
Patel raised alarms over Turkey’s alleged support to Pakistan through military hardware, particularly drones reportedly used in cross-border hostilities. “Turkey may not be pulling the trigger, but supplying drones that strike our borders is no less an act of aggression,” he said. “We cannot allow a country aiding our enemies to profit from our infrastructure.”
Shiv Sena has issued a 10-day deadline to MIAL to terminate the firm’s contract, warning of widespread protests if no action is taken. Patel stated that the party has already conveyed its concerns to MIAL’s top management, and the airport’s CEO has assured them that the issue will be reviewed and addressed within the stipulated period.
The political protest has found support in the business community as well. Traders in Pune have declared a boycott of Turkish imports in a show of solidarity, reflecting a broader economic pushback against countries perceived to be aligned with hostile forces.
“This is about national interest, not political posturing,” said a Shiv Sena worker. “Why should we enable a country that strengthens our adversaries to benefit economically on Indian soil?”
Heightened security concerns in border states like Punjab and Jammu, coupled with increased drone activity, have fueled suspicions about Turkey’s defence ties with Pakistan. Shiv Sena’s demand to sever ties with Celebi NAS taps into a growing wave of economic nationalism that calls for limiting foreign involvement in critical infrastructure—especially from nations viewed as unfriendly.
As the 10-day window for action begins, MIAL now faces pressure to respond decisively. Regardless of the outcome, Shiv Sena has made its message clear: national security must take precedence over business partnerships.
