Article Title: The Challenge of policing digital giants
24-03-2025
Economy Current Affairs Analysis
Context
On November 18, 2024, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) issued a landmark order imposing a fine of ₹213.14 crore and forcing several behavioural remedies on Meta.
This included a five year ban on sharing user data collected on WhatsApp with other Meta companies such as Facebook and Instagram, for advertising purposes.
In turn, Meta approached the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) in an appeal against CCI’s order.
The NCLAT, on January 23, 2025, granted a stay on the five-year ban from sharing user data and the penalty, subject to Meta depositing 50% of the total penalty
Competition Commission of India (CCI)
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is a statutory and quasi-judicial body operating under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
Established in March 2009 under the Competition Act, 2002, the CCI aims to prevent anti competitive practices, promote and sustain market competition, protect consumer interests, and ensure the freedom of trade in India’s markets.
Eliminating Anti-Competitive Practices: To eradicate monopolistic practices and cartels that adversely affect market competition.
Promoting Competition: To foster fair and healthy competition to ensure efficient market functioning.
Consumer Protection: To safeguard consumers’ rights by enabling access to a variety of goods and services at competitive prices.
Freedom of Trade: To create a level playing field to ensure free trade across Indian markets.
"UPSC-2026-PRELIMS COMBINED MAINS PROGRAMME" NEW BATCH STARTS WITH ORIENTATION ON MAY 12th,2025 
