NRAI Challenges Exclusion from CCI’s Confidentiality Ring in Zomato Antitrust Probe

The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) has moved a petition against the Competition Commission of India (CCI), challenging its exclusion from the confidentiality ring in the current Zomato and Swiggy antitrust probe. The Delhi High Court has issued notices to CCI and Swiggy, with the next hearing scheduled for January 21, 2025.

 

Key Highlights:

 

✅ Legal Battle: NRAI argues that access to confidential documents is crucial for filing objections to the Director General’s (DG) report on alleged anti-competitive practices. ✅ CCI’s Stand: The commission maintains that NRAI’s request conflicts with confidentiality ring regulations, but has agreed to file a formal response.

✅ Swiggy’s Opposition: Swiggy previously challenged CCI’s order granting NRAI access to confidential data, leading to a Karnataka High Court review.

✅ Judicial Intervention: The notice by the Delhi High Court indicates increased scrutiny on the impartiality of the investigation process.

✅ Industry Impact: The case may redefine regulatory transparency in India's food delivery industry, shaping future antitrust hearings.

 

As the next hearing is set for early 2025, the stakeholders are looking forward to the next development in this high-profile legal battle.

 

Source: The Courtroom, New Indian Express, CNBC TV18