CCI ban on WhatsApp data-sharing on hold

No relief on ₹213 crore fine; experts say order undermines CCI's authority

- Krishna Yadav

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on Thursday granted interim relief to Meta Platforms by lifting the five-year ban imposed by India's competition regulator on WhatsApp's data sharing practices.

NCLAT, though, did not stay the penalty portion of the Competition Commission of India's ruling and directed Meta to deposit 50% of the ₹213 crore fine to secure a stay on the order. This deposit will be refunded if Meta, which had already paid 25% of the penalty to CCI, wins the case. The tribunal will next hear the case on 17 March.