Case Law Details
People Interactive India Private Limited Vs Alphabet Inc. (Competition Commission of India)
Introduction: The Competition Commission of India recently deliberated on interim relief requests by People Interactive India Private Limited and others against Alphabet Inc. (Google) concerning its app store fee policy. This article explores the details of the case, the interim relief prayers, the Commission’s analysis, and the ultimate conclusion.
Detailed Analysis: The case originated from allegations against Google for potential violations of Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2002, pertaining to its app store policies. The Informants, including People Interactive India Private Limited and others, raised concerns about Google’s updated payment policies and their impact on various stakeholders. The Commission, in its prima facie order, identified relevant markets and directed an investigation into Google’s conduct.
During the hearings, the parties presented detailed arguments regarding interim relief prayers. The Informants sought various directives, including restrictions on data sharing, fee/commission imposition, and app delisting policies by Google. However, the Commission scrutinized these prayers in light of the statutory scheme and legal precedents.
The Commission emphasized the necessity of a clear nexus between relief sought and issues under investigation. It observed that some of the relief prayers lacked corresponding investigation directions, thereby diminishing their basis. Additionally, the Commission evaluated the feasibility and proportionality of the requested relief, particularly concerning Google’s fee collection practices.
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