Shiv Sena Demands Turkish Firm’s Exit from Mumbai Airport Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

MUMBAI — The Shiv Sena, a prominent political party in Maharashtra, has issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Mumbai International Airport Authority to terminate its contract with CelebiNAS Airport Services India, a Turkish company handling ground services at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). The demand, led by Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut, stems from allegations that Turkey supports Pakistan, particularly through the supply of drones, amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

On Monday, Shiv Sena activists protested outside the airport, pressing for the immediate cancellation of CelebiNAS’s contract. Raut, speaking to reporters, accused the Turkish firm of backing Pakistan, India’s rival in the ongoing border conflict. “No Turkish company will be allowed to operate in Maharashtra,” Raut declared, signaling a broader push to boycott Turkish businesses in the state. The party’s stance is rooted in geopolitical concerns, as India-Pakistan relations have deteriorated following recent military exchanges.

The protest follows reports of Turkish kamikaze drones being recovered in Jammu and Kashmir, with Indian officials suggesting Pakistan used these drones to test air defenses. The Shiv Sena’s call for action aligns with heightened national security concerns, as India responds to what it describes as Pakistan-backed provocations. The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced compensation for families affected by recent cross-border shelling, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

CelebiNAS, a joint venture involving Turkish firm Celebi Aviation, has been a key player in ground handling at CSMIA. However, the Shiv Sena’s ultimatum reflects growing public and political sentiment against foreign entities perceived as aligned with Pakistan. Raut emphasized that the party’s position is non-negotiable, warning of further action if the airport authority fails to comply within the stipulated timeframe.

The Mumbai International Airport Authority has yet to respond publicly to the demand. As tensions persist along the India-Pakistan border, the Shiv Sena’s move highlights the intersection of geopolitics and local business operations, with potential implications for foreign firms operating in India.