Competition Commission of India (CCI)

CONTEXT:

Refusing to intervene into the Karnataka High Court's order in the Amazon-Flipkart case, the SC indirectly allowed the CCI to go ahead with the probe against both the companies, allegedly entering into anti-competitive agreements in violation of the Competition Act of 2002. The issue brings light on anti-competitive agreement and a hostile effect on fair competition due to unfair practices by the e-commerce companies.

• The Competition Commission of India (CCI) was established in March 2009 by Government of India under the Competition Act, 2002 for the administration, implementation, and enforcement of the Act.
• Objectives include:

• Eliminate practices having adverse effect on competition
• Promote and sustain competition
• Protect the interests of consumers
• Ensure freedom of trade in the markets of India
• Establish a robust competitive environment.

• CCI consists of a Chairperson and 6 Members appointed by the Central Government
• Its functions include

• Ensuring that the benefit and welfare of the customers are maintained in the Indian Market.
• An accelerated and inclusive economic growth through ensuring fair and healthy competition.
• Ensuring the efficient utilization of the nation’s resources.
• The Commission also undertakes competition advocacy.
• It is also the antitrust ombudsman for small organizations.
• The CCI will also scrutinize any foreign company that enters the Indian market that it abides by India’s competition laws – the Competition Act, 2002.
• CCI also ensures interaction and cooperation with the other regulating authorities in the economy.
• It also acts as a business facilitator.

Sources

• The Hindu
• Ministry of Corporate Affairs website