Google pays Rs 1,300 cr as penalty to CCI
The tech giant has paid the entire fine as per the CCI order
Nearly six months after the antitrust authority Competition Commission of India (CCI) order imposed a Rs 1,300-crore penalty for unfair trade practices in the android system, Google India has paid the entire fine, sources privy to the development told e4m.
“The entire penalty has been paid, as per the CCI order,” an official said.
CCI had imposed Rs 1,350 cr penalty on Google in October 2022 for allegedly exploiting its dominant position in Android. It had also told the tech company to remove restrictions on device makers, including those related to the pre-installation of apps and ensuring exclusivity of its search.
The tech firm had then approached NCLAT in the first week of January but the tribunal refused to vacate the CCI order following which Google went to the Supreme Court.
The apex court on January 19 upheld India's antitrust order.
A day after the SC verdict, Google had promised then that it would abide by the top court order.
The spokesperson of Google India had, however, insisted that Android has greatly benefited Indian users, developers, and OEMs and played a key role in India’s digital transformation. “We remain committed to our users and partners and will cooperate with the CCI on the way forward, in parallel with our appeal.”
