Google faces $5 billion antitrust fine in India
Unlike the US and EU, Google cannot escape with a settlement package in India. If found guilty, the Internet giant may be slapped with a fine of $5 billion.
Even as Google wrapped up its antitrust case with the European Union, the search engine giant is still under an antitrust scrutiny in India and faces hefty fines up to $5 billion, if found guilty.
Google, however, has reiterated extending full co-operation to the antitrust body Competition Commission of India (CCI) in its investigation. Google has pointed out that the two-year long review conducted by the US antitrust watchdog was in its favour.
“We are extending full co-operation to the Competition Commission of India in their investigation. We’re pleased that the conclusion of the Federal Trade Commission’s two year review was that Google’s services are good for users and good for competition,” a Google spokesperson is quoted as saying.
The CCI has been investigating into the allegations that Google abused its dominant position in the Internet search engine space after a complaint by the Consumer Unity and Trust Society (CUTS) in 2012. A similar complaint was lodged by a wedding website later.
Unlike the anti-trust cases in the US and European Union, Indian laws don’t permit settlement process. Moreover, complaint filed with CCI cannot be withdrawn.
It’s notable the CCI has referred the issue to investigation arm — Director General (DG) — for a detailed investigation after finding prima facie evidence of violations. According to reports, the DG is expected to soon submit its report, which also includes comments from the third parties.
Source: TOI