The Competition Commission of India (CCI), established under the Competition Act, 2002, is the chief regulatory body to promote and sustain fair competition in markets.
Role of CCI in Containing Abuse of Dominant Position by MNCs
Enforcement of Competition Act, 2002 0 It can initiate investigations suo motu or based on complaints from consumers or firms.
Regulation of Mergers and Acquisitions involving MNCs to ensure they do not lead to market monopolisation or restrict competition.
Investigation and Monitoring of market practices. It can ask the Director General (DG) for investigation into dominant firms. Eg- investigation against e-Commerce companies
Asian Paints Case (2024): CCI ordered an investigation into exclusionary practices that restricted competition in the decorative paints market.
Imposition of Penalties on firms found guilty of abusing dominance. Eg- Google was fined for abusing dominance in the Android mobile ecosystem
Conducts awareness campaigns to inform consumers about their rights
Challenges
Global Nature of MNCs: Difficult to regulate cross-border conduct and global digital platforms.
Proof Burden: Difficult to establish anti-competitive “effects.”
Lengthy Litigation: MNCs challenge orders in courts, delaying enforcement.
Jurisdictional Conflicts: Overlaps with data and consumer protection authorities like TRAI
Way Forward
Build economic and digital expertise in CCI and DG offices.
Enhance international cooperation with global antitrust regulators.
Ensure faster adjudication and reduce judicial delays.
Update the Competition Act to handle AI and platform dominance.
The CCI has emerged as a key pillar of India’s economic governance, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.