Google Files Writ Against Indian Antitrust Watchdog

Google Files Petition Against CCI Over Leaked Antitrust Report

On Thursday, Google initiated legal proceedings in the Delhi High Court against the Competition Commission of India (CCI). This action follows the unauthorized disclosure of a confidential report concerning the CCI’s preliminary findings in an ongoing antitrust investigation.

Allegations of Android Dominance Abuse

The leaked report, which Google has not yet officially received or had the chance to examine, alleges that the technology firm leveraged its dominant position with the Android operating system in India. This is said to have illegally disadvantaged competitors within the nation’s substantial internet market.

The CCI initiated its investigation into Google’s potential misuse of Android approximately two years ago. Data from Counterpoint Research indicates that around 98% of smartphones currently used in India operate on Google’s mobile platform.

Google's Response to the Leak

Google stated that it is seeking “redress” to address the breach of confidentiality. The company argues that this breach compromises its ability to mount a proper defense and negatively impacts both Google and its collaborative partners.

The leaked report reportedly details how Google diminished the capacity and motivation of device manufacturers to develop and market devices utilizing alternative Android versions.

Pre-Installation Requirements Under Scrutiny

Furthermore, the report suggests that Google’s practice of mandating the pre-installation of its applications on devices violates India’s competition regulations.

Google maintains that it has not been afforded the opportunity to review the report’s conclusions, nor to present a defense against any accusations.

India's Importance to Google

India represents a crucial international market for Google, reaching over 500 million internet users, as per Comscore’s data. The company has also made significant financial commitments to the country.

Last year, Google announced a planned investment of $10 billion in India over a five to seven-year period. A substantial portion of this investment, approximately $4.5 billion, has already been allocated through a transaction with Indian technology leader Jio Platforms.

Concerns Regarding Confidentiality

A Google spokesperson expressed deep concern regarding the leak of the Director General’s Report. The report contained confidential information related to the ongoing case while under the CCI’s protection.

“Protecting confidential information is paramount to any governmental investigation,” the spokesperson stated. “We are actively pursuing legal avenues to seek resolution and prevent further unauthorized disclosures.”

Google emphasized its full cooperation and adherence to confidentiality throughout the investigative process. The company expressed its expectation that the institutions it engages with will uphold the same standards of confidentiality.