Meta Appeals CCI's Rs 213 Crore Fine Over WhatsApp Policies

Meta Platforms Inc has challenged the CCI's Rs 213.14 crore fine in the NCLAT for abusing its dominance linked to WhatsApp’s 2021 privacy policy update. The appeal is set for January 16. CCI has mandated Meta to halt anti-competitive practices and impose behavioral remedies.

Meta Platforms Inc has moved to contest the penalty levied by India's Competition Commission (CCI), appealing the decision at the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). The corporate appellate tribunal's bench, including Chairperson Justice Ashok Bhushan, will hear the case on January 16.

The social media giant, represented by senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Mukul Rohatgi, has requested an expedited hearing, highlighting the significance of the matter. The CCI had imposed a fine of Rs 213.14 crore for Meta's alleged abuse of its dominant position concerning updates to WhatsApp's privacy policies in 2021.

The CCI has instructed Meta to cease anti-competitive practices and imposed behavioral remedies, including a prohibition on data sharing between WhatsApp and other Meta companies for advertising. Compliance with these measures is expected over a defined period.

(With inputs from agencies.)