New Delhi, May 19, 2025 — Turkish ground-handling giant Çelebi Aviation has issued a legal notice to noted commentator Abhijit Mitra, alleging defamation over remarks he made regarding the company's operations in India. In response, Mitra has stated that his comments were made in good faith and were based on publicly reported facts.
According to sources, the legal notice from Çelebi Aviation pertains to statements made by Mitra in a recent interview and social media posts, where he questioned aspects of the company's alleged conduct and operational framework in India. The commentator, known for his outspoken views on national security and infrastructure issues, claims he merely cited facts already in the public domain.
“I stand by everything I said. My observations were based entirely on information that is already publicly reported. There was no malice or misinformation intended,” said Mitra in a public statement issued Monday.
The controversy stems from recent media reports that have raised questions about the operations of foreign firms at Indian airports, with a particular focus on compliance, security clearances, and ownership structures. Celebi Aviation, which has a presence in multiple Indian airports, has strongly refuted any wrongdoing.
Çelebi Aviation has yet to make a detailed public statement, but legal experts believe the company is seeking to protect its reputation amid increasing scrutiny from regulatory authorities and public commentators.
Background on Celebi Aviation in India
Celebi Aviation has been operating in India for over a decade, offering ground-handling services at key airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and others. The company has often highlighted its compliance with Indian aviation norms and its contributions to enhancing airport service efficiency.
However, with rising concerns over foreign control in strategic infrastructure, particularly in aviation, voices like Mitra’s have gained traction. The current legal notice may signal a turning point in how such public discourse is handled legally and diplomatically.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
Mitra’s supporters have rallied behind him on social media, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression and investigative commentary. Legal analysts also note that defamation cases involving public interest commentary can become complex and sensitive, especially when involving foreign corporations operating in India.
What Lies Ahead
The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for future engagements between media commentators and foreign firms in India. It may also influence how companies respond to public scrutiny in the age of digital transparency and real-time news dissemination.
For now, Mitra maintains that he is prepared to defend his statements and is confident that the truth and the public interest will prevail.
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