Amazon seeks stay on CCI probe into alleged anti-competitive practices by e-commerce players

Amazon, which is being investigated by India's Competition Regulator, has approached the Karnataka High Court seeking a stay on the ongoing probe.

The High Court has not stayed the probe. The matter, however, is likely to be heard in a couple of days.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) had ordered a probe against e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart on January 13 for alleged anti-trade practices. The CCI investigation order came after Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh had approached the commission, alleging that the e-commerce player was indulging in practices such as predatory pricing and exclusive contracts with brands. The small traders' organisation had alleged that the practices undertaken by the e-tailers were having a major impact on their businesses.

"There is a strong prima facie case for a stay in favour of the petitioner as the impugned order has been passed without application of mind," the e-tailer has said in its petition.

Responding to the prayer petition filed by Amazon, the traders' body CAIT said, "The writ petition filed by Amazon today in Bangalore High Court seeking a stay on the order of Competition Commission of India for investigation in business module of Amazon and Flipkart reflects how furious Amazon is with CCI investigation, which may reveal the truth and bring true picture of its business model being conducted in India by not complying with provisions of FDI policy and law of the land. Amazon claims that it follows the FDI policy, then why they are opposing the investigation. Let the investigation be conducted by CCI, which will make the position clear."

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