Madhya Pradesh likely to scrap Metro deal with Turkish firm Asis Guard over drone link to Pakistan’s anti-India ops

The company has come under scrutiny for its suspected indirect involvement in activities deemed hostile to India's national interests, according to an India Today report.

State minister Kailash Vijayvargiya confirmed that the issue was being examined closely and that an investigation had been ordered.

"Nation first. There is no place for anti-India mentality. For us, national duty is paramount. Any kind of sympathy or cooperation with anyone who stands against India's sovereignty cannot be tolerated," he said in a post on X.

He further noted, "Turkish company Asis Guard, which is engaged in manufacturing drones, has being accused that the drones manufactured by it were recently used in anti-India activities. The serious fact is that this same company Assis is currently contracted for the work of digital systems in Bhopal and Indore Metro projects."

The minister said a detailed and impartial probe was underway, and if any link to anti-national elements was confirmed, the state would terminate the company’s contract.

This development follows the Centre’s decision to revoke the security clearance of Turkish firm Celebi Aviation citing national security concerns, after Ankara publicly backed Pakistan and criticised India's military strikes.

Celebi Aviation, which has been active in India for over 15 years and employs more than 10,000 people, operates at nine major airports across the country. It was last granted security clearance in November 2022.

In response, Celebi Aviation India said it complies fully with Indian laws, including those related to aviation, taxation and national security, and operates transparently. The company denied allegations regarding its ownership or operations in India and reaffirmed its commitment to the Indian aviation market.