‏إظهار الرسائل ذات التسميات CCI. إظهار كافة الرسائل
‏إظهار الرسائل ذات التسميات CCI. إظهار كافة الرسائل

Apple to Submit India Financials in Antitrust Probe, Faces Global Turnover Penalty Risk

Apple to Submit India Financials in Antitrust Probe, Faces Global Turnover Penalty Risk

Apple has agreed to submit its India‑specific financials to the Competition Commission of India (CCI) by June 25, 2026, marking a turning point in a long‑pending antitrust case over App Store billing practices. The move brings the investigation closer to a potential penalty decision.

A confidential CCI order, reviewed by Reuters, showed Apple last month agreed to supply its India financials, which is typically needed by the watchdog for calculatiing the penalty.

Apple’s lawyer asked the CCI at a May 21 hearing for a ”final extension” until June 25 to file its ”India-specific financial information”, and ”the commission considered the request and granted” it, the order noted.

Key Developments

  • Case origin: Filed in 2021 by Match Group (Tinder) and Alliance of Digital India Foundation (ADIF), alleging anti‑competitive App Store policies
  • CCI findings (2024): Apple was found to have abused its dominant position in the iPhone apps market; Apple denied wrongdoing
  • Financials submission: Apple’s lawyer requested a final extension until June 25, 2026 to file India‑specific financial data; CCI granted the request
  • Penalty implications: CCI needs financials to calculate fines; penalties may be based on global turnover, exposing Apple to fines up to USD 38 billion

Apple in India

  • Market share: iPhone now accounts for 9% of India’s smartphone market, up from 2% five years ago
  • Manufacturing: India has become a key hub as Apple diversifies beyond China, with production expanding via Tata Electronics and Foxconn
  • Regulatory climate: India’s new antitrust penalty law is among the toughest globally, making this case Apple’s most high‑profile regulatory challenge in India

Strategic Implications

  • For Apple: Risk of multi‑billion‑dollar fines if penalties are calculated on global turnover; pressure to adjust App Store billing practices in India
  • For India’s digital ecosystem: Strengthens startup advocacy groups like ADIF; could reshape in‑app payment rules; signals India’s intent to enforce global‑scale accountability

Timeline Snapshot

EventDateDetails
Case filed by ADIF & Match Group2021Alleged anti‑competitive App Store policies
CCI investigation concludes2024Found Apple abused dominance
Apple resists financial disclosure2024–2025Argued penalties should not use global turnover
CCI grants final extensionMay 21, 2026Deadline set for June 25
Financials submission dueJune 25, 2026Key step toward penalty decision

Adani Power Gets CCI Nod to Fully Acquire GVK Energy

Adani Power Gets CCI Nod to Fully Acquire GVK Energy

Adani Power Ltd has secured approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to fully acquire GVK Energy, marking a significant step in its diversification strategy and expansion into hydropower.

Deal Overview

  • Acquirer: Adani Power, India’s largest private power producer
  • Target: GVK Energy via subsidiary Alaknanda Hydro Power Ltd
  • Asset: 330 MW Srinagar Hydroelectric Project in Uttarakhand
  • Process: Acquisition under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code
  • Regulator: CCI approval granted on May 12, 2026

Strategic Importance

  • Diversification: Adani Power strengthens its renewable portfolio by entering hydropower
  • Geographic Expansion: Adds Uttarakhand to Adani’s footprint across multiple states
  • Energy Security: Hydropower provides clean, reliable baseload energy

Recent Acquisitions by Adani Power (2025–2026)

AcquisitionLocationCapacityStrategic Value
GVK Energy (AHPL)Srinagar, Uttarakhand330 MW hydroelectricEntry into hydropower; diversification under IBC resolution
Vidarbha PowerMaharashtra600 MW thermalStrengthens western India footprint; adds baseload capacity
Druk Green JVBhutan570 MW hydro (JV project)Expands cross-border clean energy cooperation
Greenfield Thermal PlantBihar2,400 MW (planned)Expands eastern India presence; long-term supply contracts

Regulatory Context

  • CCI Clearance: Ensures the acquisition does not distort competition
  • IBC Framework: Highlights Adani’s role in rescuing distressed assets
  • Other Deals Cleared: Thriveni Earthmovers’ stake in Lloyds Engineering Works and merger of three entities into LEWL

Implications for India’s Power Sector

  • Boost to Hydropower: Strengthens India’s renewable energy mix
  • Adani’s Expansion: Reinforces dominance across thermal, solar, and hydroelectric power
  • Regional Impact: Uttarakhand gains investment and operational stability
  • Capacity Growth: Portfolio set to exceed 16 GW post-acquisitions

This acquisition signals Adani Power’s transition from a thermal-heavy portfolio to a diversified energy leader, positioning it at the forefront of India’s clean energy ambitions.

Coinbase Wins India’s Nod for $2.45B CoinDCX Stake

Coinbase Wins India’s Nod for $2.45B CoinDCX Stake
India’s antitrust regulator has officially approved Coinbase’s acquisition of a minority stake in CoinDCX, valuing the Indian crypto exchange at $2.45 billion. This marks a major regulatory milestone for Coinbase as it rebuilds its presence in India after exiting in 2023 due to compliance and payment challenges.


Key Highlights

  • Approval Authority: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) cleared Coinbase’s minority stake acquisition in DCX Global Ltd, the parent company of CoinDCX.
  • Valuation: CoinDCX confirmed the deal values the exchange at $2.45 billion, underscoring its position as one of India’s largest digital asset platforms.
  • Strategic Intent: Coinbase aims to expand operations in India and the Middle East, strengthening its long-term partnership with CoinDCX.
  • Background: Coinbase had exited India in 2023 after regulatory and payment gateway hurdles but is now re-entering with a more cautious, regulator-approved approach.
  • History of Investment: Coinbase has been an investor in CoinDCX since 2020, participating in earlier funding rounds. This latest move extends its commitment.

Why This Matters

  • For Coinbase:
    • Re-establishes credibility in India’s tightly regulated crypto market.
    • Provides a foothold in Asia’s fastest-growing digital asset ecosystem.
    • Signals resilience after setbacks, including a $44 million security breach earlier in 2025.
  • For CoinDCX:
    • Boosts legitimacy with global backing.
    • Enhances ability to scale operations and attract new users.
    • Positions itself as a bridge between Indian retail investors and global crypto liquidity.

Risks & Challenges

  • Regulatory Uncertainty: India’s crypto regulations remain fluid, with taxation and compliance burdens still heavy.
  • Market Volatility: Crypto valuations can swing sharply, making long-term stability uncertain.
  • Trust Factor: Coinbase must rebuild trust after its abrupt 2023 exit and recent security breach.

Comparison Snapshot

AspectCoinbase (Global)CoinDCX (India)
Market ReachUS, EU, AsiaIndia, Middle East
Valuation ImpactStrengthens Asia presence$2.45B valuation confirmed
Regulatory StatusApproved by CCIGains legitimacy via global partner
Strategic GoalRe-entry into IndiaExpansion with global capital

Bottom Line: Coinbase’s approved minority stake in CoinDCX is more than just an investment—it’s a strategic re-entry into India’s crypto market, with potential ripple effects across Asia. The move strengthens CoinDCX’s valuation and credibility, while giving Coinbase a second chance to establish itself in one of the world’s most dynamic digital asset markets.

CCI Clears Kedaara Capital’s Stake Buy in Porter’s Parent Company

CCI Clears Kedaara Capital’s Stake Buy in Porter’s Parent Company

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of a stake in SmartShift Logistics Solutions Private Limited, the parent company of Porter, by Kedaara Sapphire Holding and Kedaara Capital Fund IV AIF — both affiliates of Kedaara Capital.

Key Highlights    

  • Target Company: SmartShift Logistics Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
  • Brand Operated: Porter — an on-demand logistics platform
  • Acquirers: Kedaara Sapphire Holding and Kedaara Capital Fund IV AIF
  • Deal Type: Minority stake acquisition
  • Regulatory Approval: Cleared by CCI on July 8, 2025 da 

Context & Impact 

  • Porter’s Growth: Recently raised $200 million in Series F funding, co-led by Kedaara Capital and Wellington Management, valuing the company at $1.2 billion.
  • Unicorn Status: Porter became India’s third logistics unicorn in 2025, after Netradyne and Juspay.
  • Exit of Early Investors: Peak XV Partners (formerly Sequoia Capital India & SEA) and Kae Capital exited during this round.
Even though Kedaara Capital is acquiring only a minority stake in Porter (via SmartShift Logistics Solutions Pvt. Ltd.), CCI approval was required due to the deal crossing certain regulatory thresholds under India’s competition law.

Under the Competition Act, 2002, any acquisition—minority or majority—must be notified to the Competition Commission of India (CCI) if it crosses specified asset or turnover thresholds.

Porter is a tech-enabled, on-demand logistics platform operated by SmartShift Logistics Solutions Pvt. Ltd. It was founded in 2014 by Pranav Goel, Uttam Digga, and Vikas Choudhary, and has grown into one of India’s leading players in intra-city and inter-city logistics.

In May 2025, Porter raised $200 million in Series F funding, co-led by Kedaara Capital and Wellington Management, pushing its valuation to $1.2 billion — making it India’s third logistics unicorn of the year.

With Porter’s valuation crossing $1.2 billion after the Series F round, the transaction likely exceeded the prescribed thresholds, triggering mandatory CCI review.

CCI’s role is to ensure that even minority acquisitions don’t lead to anti-competitive practices, such as:
  • Gaining strategic influence over a market leader
  • Creating barriers for smaller players
  • Coordinated behavior among investors in the same sector

CCI Approves Merger of Aster DM Healthcare and Quality Care India Ltd



The Competition Commission of India (CCI), in its meeting held on April 15, 2025, has approved the proposed merger between Aster DM Healthcare Limited and Quality Care India Ltd, under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002.

The merged entity (subject to approvals) ‘Aster DM Quality Care’ will be jointly controlled by Aster Promoters and Blackstone and brings together the strengths of two leading healthcare providers with a common vision of expanding access to high-quality medical care across the country.

Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said, "For the merger to complete, the CCI approval is an important milestone, and we are happy that we got the approval from regulatory authority. The merger of Aster DM Healthcare and Quality Care India is not merely a consolidation of resources, but a convergence of vision, expertise, and a shared commitment to building one of the largest and most impactful healthcare networks in the country. The approval reflects the strength of our combined vision and our collective potential to enhance healthcare access and quality.

CCI Approves Merger of Aster DM Healthcare and Quality Care India Ltd

The integration of Aster and Quality Care’s extensive networks and operational expertise will significantly strengthen our capacity to deliver world-class healthcare, foster innovation, and elevate patient outcomes. Together, we are setting the stage for a new era in healthcare.”

The merged entity ‘Aster DM Quality Care Limited’ will have a combined portfolio of four leading brands: Aster DM, CARE Hospitals, KIMSHEALTH and Evercare. The combined entity will have a network of 38 hospitals and 10,150+ beds spread across 27 cities making it one of the top 3 hospital chains in India. The merged entity is expected to grow to ~13,300 beds by FY27 through internal accruals/cash on hand with a mix of greenfield and brownfield opportunities.

The merged entity is expected to unlock significant synergies that will drive growth, enhance operational efficiency, and elevate the standard of patient care across the network. It will enable the sharing of best practices, standardization of clinical protocols, and collaboration across specialties—leading to improved outcomes and service quality. Additionally, the increased scale will support greater investment in advanced healthcare technologies and digital platforms, fostering innovation and enabling more seamless patient experiences.

The merger transaction is expected to be completed during this year.

Govt Enquires Quick Commerce Companies on Operating Model and Warehouse Ownership

Govt Enquires Quick Commerce Companies on Operating Model and Warehouse Ownership

Quick commerce companies like Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, Zepto, and Bigbasket recently met with Indian government officials to discuss concerns related to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and their operating models.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) chaired the meeting, which also included officials from the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Competition Commission of India (CCI).

The government is particularly interested in understanding how these companies operate their dark stores (mini warehouses within neighborhoods) and whether they comply with India's FDI norms for ecommerce, which prohibit online retailers with foreign investments from holding inventory.

Senior executives from Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, Zepto, and Bigbasket met with officials from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), the Department of Consumer Affairs, and the Competition Commission of India (CCI).

Key Topics: The meeting focused on the ownership structure of dark stores (mini warehouses within neighborhoods), compliance with FDI norms, and the impact on traditional kirana stores.

Concerns Raised

FDI Compliance: Officials questioned whether quick commerce companies comply with India's FDI norms for ecommerce, which prohibit online retailers with foreign investments from holding inventory. Dark stores are a point of contention as they are used to store products for quick delivery.

Impact on Kirana Stores: There were concerns about how the growth of quick commerce affects traditional kirana stores, with some officials worried that it might lead to unfair competition and negatively impact small retailers.

Delivery Safety: Questions were raised about the burden on delivery partners to fulfill orders within 10 minutes and whether this creates road safety issues.

Company Responses

Supplementary Demand: Representatives from quick commerce companies argued that their services supplement demand rather than replace traditional retail.

Clarifications: They addressed concerns about delivery safety and clarified their compliance with regulatory norms.

Broader Context

Rapid Growth: Quick commerce is experiencing rapid growth, with companies raising significant capital and expanding their operations. 

Regulatory Scrutiny: The government is keen on ensuring that these companies adhere to regulatory frameworks to maintain fair competition and protect consumer interests.

The government plans to hold more such meetings to gather detailed information on the operations of quick commerce platforms. This ongoing dialogue aims to balance innovation with regulatory compliance and fair market practices.

India's CCI Slaps META with Penalty of $25.4 Mn Over WhatsApp

India's CCI Slaps META with Penalty of $25.4 Mn Over WhatsApp

India's chief competition regulator, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs. 213.14 crore (approx US$ 25.4 Mn) on Meta (formerly Facebook) for anti-competitive practices related to its 2021 privacy policy update for WhatsApp.

The CCI found that Meta holds a dominant position in both the OTT messaging apps and online display advertising markets in India.

The 2021 privacy policy update forced users to accept expanded data collection and sharing terms without an opt-out option, which the CCI deemed as imposing unfair conditions.

Meta is prohibited from sharing user data collected on WhatsApp with other Meta companies for advertising purposes for the next five years. WhatsApp must provide users with an opt-out option for data sharing and ensure that future policy updates comply with these requirements.

Meta and WhatsApp are required to implement specific behavioral changes within a set timeframe to address the issues arising from the policy update.

Further, as regards sharing of data between Meta companies, the Commission has concluded that (a) sharing of WhatsApp users’ data between Meta companies for purposes other than providing WhatsApp Service creates an entry barrier for the rivals of Meta and thus, results in denial of market access in the display advertisement market, in contravention of the provisions of Section 4(2)(c) of the Act; and (b) Meta has engaged in leveraging its dominant position in the OTT messaging apps through smartphones to protect its position in the online display advertising market and the same is in contravention of Section 4(2)(e) of the Act.

In view of the anti-competitive harm elaborated in this order and for the purpose of addressing such harm, the OPs are further directed to implement the following directions:
  • WhatsApp will not share user data collected on its platform with other Meta Companies or Meta Company Products for advertising purposes, for a period of 5 (five) years from the date of receipt of this order. After expiry of the said period, the directions at para 6.2 (except para 6.2.1) will apply mutatis mutandis in respect of such sharing of data for advertising purposes.
  • With respect to sharing of WhatsApp user data for purposes other than advertising:WhatsApp’s policy should include a detailed explanation of the user data shared with other Meta Companies or Meta Company Products. This explanation should specify the purpose of data sharing, linking each type of data to its corresponding purpose.
    • Sharing of user data collected on WhatsApp with other Meta Companies or Meta Company Products for purposes other than for providing WhatsApp services shall not be made a condition for users to access WhatsApp Service in India.
    • In respect of sharing of WhatsApp user data for purposes other than for providing WhatsApp Services, all users in India (including users who have accepted 2021 update) will be provided with:
  • the choice to manage such data sharing by way of an opt-out option prominently through an in-app notification; and
  • the option to review and modify their choice with respect to such sharing of data through a prominent tab in settings of WhatsApp application.
  • All future policy updates shall also comply with these requirements.
This decision underscores the importance of user consent and fair competition in the digital economy. It also aligns with global trends of increasing scrutiny over data privacy and antitrust practices.

Accenture Gets CCI Approval to Acquire Stake in Vodafone's Subsidiary

Accenture Gets CCI Approval to Acquire Stake in Vodafone's Subsidiary

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Accenture's acquisition of a stake in Vodafone Shared Operations Ltd (VSOL). This strategic partnership, announced last November, involves Accenture investing €150 million for a minority stake.

Vodafone Shared Operations Ltd (VSOL) is a subsidiary of Vodafone Group Plc, providing shared services to Vodafone and its network of partner telecommunications companies. It provides shared services to the Vodafone Group and its network of partner telecommunications companies.

This move is expected to leverage Accenture's technology and transformation services, including digital solutions and AI expertise, to enhance Vodafone's operations.

Accenture’s expertise in digital transformation and AI can streamline Vodafone’s operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective. Vodafone will gain access to Accenture’s cutting-edge technology solutions, including AI, cloud services, and cybersecurity, which can improve service delivery and innovation.

By leveraging Accenture’s digital solutions, Vodafone can enhance its customer service and engagement, leading to higher customer satisfaction and retention.

Where as for Accenture, this partnership strengthens its presence in the telecommunications sector, adding a significant telecom brand like Vodafone to its portfolio. Working closely with Vodafone provides Accenture with opportunities to innovate and develop new solutions tailored to the telecom industry, which can be leveraged with other clients.

This move positions Accenture as a key player in the digital transformation of the telecom sector, potentially attracting more clients from this industry.

Further about VSOL, it offers a broad range of services, including cloud and infrastructure, cybersecurity, data analytics, and telecom IT. It operates from eight different locations, including India, the UK, and Spain.

VSOL employs over 31,000 people, contributing significantly to Vodafone's operations. The unit has delivered more than €1 billion in value throughits services.

This strategic partnership with Accenture aims to commercialize and enhance these shared services, leveraging Accenture's technology and transformation expertise.

Google Faces Rs. 936.44 Core Penalty by CCI for Anti-competitive Practices in Relation to Its Play Store Policies

Google Faces Rs. 936.44 Core Penalty by CCI for Anti-competitive Practices in Relation to Its Play Store Policies

India's competition watchdog —Competition Commission of India (CCI) — has imposed a penalty of Rs. 936.44 crore (~US$ 113.5 Million) on tech giant Google for abusing its dominant position with respect to its Play Store policies, apart from issuing a cease-and-desist order. The Commission also directed Google to modify its conduct within a defined timeline.

For app developers, app stores have become a necessary medium for distribution of their apps to the end users and the availability of app store(s) is directly dependent on OS installed on a smart device. An appreciation of the market dynamics in licensable mobile operating system in India makes it evident that Google’s Android OS has successfully reaped the indirect network effects. Google’s Play Store constitutes the main distribution channel for app developers in the Android mobile ecosystem, which allows its owners to capitalize on the apps brought to market.

Based on its assessment, the CCI found Google to be dominant in the markets for licensable OS for smart mobile devices & market for app stores for Android smart mobile OS, in India.

Selling of in-app digital goods constitutes an important means for app developers to monetize their creations/innovations. However, for in-app digital goods to be distributed to purchasing users, developers must configure their apps so that all purchases of the digital goods go through Google’s payment system, which processes the transactions.

Google’s Play Store policies require the App developers to exclusively and mandatorily use Google Play's Billing System (GPBS) not only for receiving payments for Apps (and other digital products like audio, video, games) distributed/sold through the Google Play Store but also for certain in-app purchases i.e. purchases made by users of Apps after they have downloaded/ purchased the App from the Play Store. Further, app developers cannot, within an app, provide users with a direct link to a webpage containing an alternative payment method or use language that encourages a user to purchase the digital item outside of the app (anti-steering provisions).

If the app developers do not comply with Google’s policy of using GPBS, they are not permitted to list their apps on the Play Store and thus, would lose out the vast pool of potential customers in the form of Android users. Making access to the Play Store dependent on mandatory usage of GPBS for paid apps and in-app purchases is one sided and arbitrary and devoid of any legitimate business interest. The app developers are left bereft of the inherent choice to use payment processor of their liking from the open market.

The CCI has also examined the allegations of exclusion of rival UPI apps as effective payment options on Play Store. It was found that Google Pay has been integrated with intent flow methodology whereas other UPI apps can be used through collect flow methodology. It was noted that the intent flow technology is superior and user friendly than collect flow technology, with intent flow offering significant advantages to both customers and merchants and the success rate with the intent flow methodology being higher due to lower latency. Google has informed the CCI that it has recently changed its policy and has allowed rival UPI apps to be integrated with intent flow. 

Based on its assessment, the CCI concluded that,
  • making access to the Play Store, for app developers, dependent on mandatory usage of GPBS for paid apps and in-app purchases constitutes an imposition of unfair condition on app developers. Thus, Google is found to be in violation of the provisions of Section 4(2)(a)(i) of the Act.
  • Google is found to be following discriminatory practices by not using GPBS for its own applications i.e., YouTube. This also amount to imposition of discriminatory conditions as well as pricing as YouTube is not paying the service fee as being imposed on other apps covered in the GPBS requirements. Thus, Google is found to be in violation of Section 4(2)(a)(i) and 4(2)(a)(ii) of the Act.
  • mandatory imposition of GPBS disturbs innovation incentives and the ability of both the payment processors as well as app developers to undertake technical development and innovate and thus, tantamount to limiting technical development in the market for in-app payment processing services.  in violation of the provisions of the Act. Thus, Google is found to be in violation of the provisions of Section 4(2)(b)(ii) of the Act.
  • mandatory imposition of GPBS by Google, also results in denial of market access for payment aggregators as well as app developers, in violation of the provisions of Section 4(2)(c) of the Act.
  • the practices followed by Google results in leveraging its dominance in market for licensable mobile OS and app stores for Android OS, to protect its position in the downstream markets, in violation of the provisions of Section 4(2)(e) of the Act.
  • different methodologies used by Google to integrate, its own UPI app vis-à-vis other rival UPI apps, with the Play Store results in violation of Sections 4(2)(a)(ii), 4(2)(c) and 4(2)(e) of the Act.
Accordingly, in terms of the provisions of Section 27 of the Act, the CCI hereby directs Google to cease and desist from indulging in anti-competitive practices that have been found to be in contravention of the provisions of Section 4 of the Act, as detailed in this order. Some of the measures, in this regard, are indicated below:
  • Google shall allow, and not restrict app developers from using any third-party billing/ payment processing services, either for in-app purchases or for purchasing apps. Google shall also not discriminate or otherwise take any adverse measures against such apps using third party billing/ payment processing services, in any manner.
  • Google shall not impose any Anti-steering Provisions on app developers and shall not restrict them from communicating with their users to promote their apps and offerings, in any manner. 
  • Google shall not restrict end users, in any manner, to access and use within apps, the features and services offered by app developers.
  • Google shall set out a clear and transparent policy on data that is collected on its platform, use of such data by the platform and also the potential and actual sharing of such data with app developers or other entities, including related entities.
In relation to computation of penalty, the CCI noted that there were glaring inconsistencies and wide disclaimers in presenting various revenue data points by Google. However, in the interest of justice and with an intent of ensuring necessary market correction at the earliest, the CCI quantified the provisional monetary penalties on the basis of the data presented by Google. Accordingly, the CCI imposed a penalty @ 7% of its average relevant turnover amounting to Rs. 936.44 crore upon Google on provisional basis, for violating Section 4 of the Act. Google has been given a time of 30 days to provide the requisite financial details and supporting documents.

The public version of the Order passed by the Commission can be accessed at: https://www.cci.gov.in/antitrust/orders/details/1072/0

CCI orders detailed probe against Make My Trip, OYO

The Competition Commission on Monday ordered a detailed investigation against Make My Trip (MMT) and OYO for allegedly indulging in anti-competitive business practices.

While ordering the probe, CCI also noted that a case against MMT and OYO for entering into a vertical arrangement having an appreciable adverse effect on competition (AAEC) in the market is also "prima facie" made out.

"The Commission is of the view that prima facie a case of contravention against MMT for abuse of dominant position... is made out on account of all the three allegations analysed supra," the Competition Commission of India (CCI) said.

The order came on a complaint filed by Rubtub Solutions Pvt Ltd which operates under the brand name of Treebo Hotels in India and is in the business of providing franchising services to budget hotels.

As per the complaint, Treebo and its partner hotels are being excluded from listing on MMT's platform through abrupt termination pursuant to the commercial arrangement between MMT and OYO.

Besides, MMT is alleged to have imposed "price parity restriction" on Treebo partner hotels through the chain agreement, which restricted it from providing its properties to Booking.com and Paytm at a better price.

Additionally, MMT allegedly imposed an "exclusivity condition" on Treebo through exclusivity agreement which restricted it from listing its properties on Booking.com and Paytm for 72 hours and 30 days prior to check-in for hotels situated in category A and category B cities, respectively.

The complainant said that OYO has abused its dominant position in the market of franchising services for budget hotels in India by entering into an anti-competitive vertical arrangement with MMT, which is a dominant online travel agency (OTA), thereby denying market access to it.

Accordingly, the Commission on "prima facie" finding the contravention of relevant provisions of Competition Act, directed DG, its investigation arm to conduct a detailed probe. PTI SRS

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