CCI launches probe against Google

Looks like trouble is brewing for Google. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has launched an investigation into Google for suspected misuse of its dominant position in the digital advertising industry (DNPA), on the basis of a complaint made by the Digital News Publishers Association. Dainik Bhaskar, India Today, NDTV, Hindustan Times, The Indian Express, The Times of India, Amar Ujala, Jagran New Media, Eenadu, and Malayalam Manorama are among the members of the DNPA.

The commission has asked the Director General (DG) to conduct an inquiry into the matter under Section 26(1) of the Act in an order dated January 7. The commission has also given the DG 60 days from the date of receipt of this order to finish the inquiry and submit the investigation report.

The CCI said in the order: "The commission is of prima facie view that Google has violated the provisions of Section 4(2)(a) of the Act, which merits investigation. Further, the Informant has also alleged that above-mentioned conduct of Google results in violation of the provisions of Section 4(2)(b)(ii) as well as Section 4(2)(c) of the Act. The DG can appropriately examine these allegations as well during investigation."