The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approached the Supreme Court, requesting that cases involving Amazon and Flipkart be transferred to itself or the Delhi High Court. The move seeks to consolidate ongoing legal proceedings related to alleged anti-competitive practices by the e-commerce giants.
Background:
Amazon and Flipkart have faced scrutiny for alleged violations of competition laws, including preferential treatment of sellers and deep discounting. Multiple cases are pending across various forums, creating procedural complexities.
Court’s Rationale:
The CCI argued that a single adjudicating forum would expedite resolution, ensuring consistency in judgments and efficient case management. Fragmented proceedings, it noted, risk delayed justice and conflicting decisions.
Existing Measures:
The CCI has previously launched investigations into both companies, emphasizing the need for compliance with fair trade practices. Interim orders have been issued in certain cases to curb perceived monopolistic behavior.
Conclusion:
If accepted, the transfer would streamline adjudication, reflecting the judiciary’s aim to harmonize legal processes in complex regulatory disputes. This development marks a pivotal step in addressing concerns over e-commerce competition.