Amazon Files Plea In Karnataka HC Against CCI’s Probe Order Into Company’s Alleged Violations Of Competition Laws

World's leading e-tailer Amazon on Monday (10 January) filed a writ petition in the Karnataka High Court seeking staying the CCI probe order into its alleged violations of the competition laws.

In its plea, Amazon has sought "quashing and setting aside" of the CCI's probe order dated 13 January 2020, claiming that the fair competition watchdog passed orders against the company without applying mind and caused serious loss to its reputation.

In January, the CCI ordered a probe into alleged malpractices and violations, involving Amazon and Flipkart for deep discounting, choosing preferred sellers and exclusive partnerships with smartphone brands. The CCI has directed the Director-General to complete the investigation within 60 days from the receipt of the order.

Amazon pleaded for an interim stay on the proceedings as the balance of convenience for stay lies in favour of the petitioner as a bonafide company.

However, the Confederation of All Indian Traders (CAIT), which is a partner organisation of the Delhi Vyapar Manch (DVM), has filed a ‘caveat’ in the Karnataka High Court that mandates the court to hear both sides before passing a stay order.

“The caveat was filed in Karnataka sometime back, so it is highly unlikely that Amazon will be able to gain any instant relief/ stay order from the court. We are expecting the case to be heard either on Tuesday or Wednesday,” Praveen Khandelwal, Secretary General, CAIT said.

(With inputs from IANS)