Meta Platforms, INC to Maintain Rs. 213.14 Crore Penalty Deposit; Final Hearing Scheduled in April 2026
In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has admitted the appeal filed by Meta Platforms, INC challenging the penalty imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). The case, which has drawn considerable attention, involves a hefty penalty of Rs. 213.14 crores levied on Meta, the parent company of social media giant Facebook, by the CCI.
The Supreme Court, in its order dated February 3, 2026, has directed that the penalty amount, which has already been deposited by Meta, shall not be withdrawn until further notice. This decision was part of interim directions given by the court as it prepares to hear the matter in depth.
In a move that underscores the case's importance, the Union of India, represented by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, has been impleaded as a party-respondent. This inclusion was agreed upon through a joint request by the senior counsel and lawyers representing the parties involved. The Solicitor General of India, Mr. Tushar Mehta, accepted the notice on behalf of the Union, indicating the government's keen interest in the proceedings.
The court has also outlined a timeline for the submission of necessary documents, with counter affidavits to be filed within four weeks and rejoinder affidavits within two weeks thereafter. This procedural step ensures that all parties have ample opportunity to present their case before the final hearing.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the final hearing of the appeals before a three-Judge Bench on April 15, 2026. This timeline allows the involved parties to prepare comprehensive arguments and gather relevant evidence to support their positions.
Meta Platforms, INC, represented by a team of senior advocates including Mr. Mukul Rohatgi, Mr. Amit Sibal, and Mr. Arun Kathpalia, contends that the penalty imposed by the CCI is unwarranted. On the other hand, the CCI, backed by senior advocate Mr. S. Niranjan Reddy and others, maintains that the penalty is justified under the Competition Act, 2002, aiming to regulate anti-competitive practices and promote fair competition in India.
The case is being closely watched by industry experts and legal analysts, as its outcome could have far-reaching implications for the technology sector and regulatory practices in India. The adjudication of this case will likely set a precedent for how competition law is applied to multinational technology companies operating in the country.
Bottom Line:
Meta Platforms, INC challenging penalty imposed by Competition Commission of India (CCI) - Union of India through Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology impleaded as a party - Penalty amount deposited by Meta not to be withdrawn until further orders - Final hearing before a three-Judge Bench scheduled.
Statutory provision(s): Competition Act, 2002
Meta Platforms, INC v. Competition Commission Of India, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2849709
