The Competition Commission of India (CCI) on Monday ordered an investigation against internet giant Google for alleged unfair business practices around its digital wallet Google Pay.
In its 39-page order, the CCI asked its Director General to investigate the alleged abuse of dominance by Google through its payments app. The main allegation centres around mandatory use of Google Play’s payment system for paid apps and in-app purchases, and excluding other mobile wallets/UPI apps for such payments.
The CCI noted that Google Pay is the only UPI-based app allowed on Google Play.
“The Commission is of the prima facie view that said conduct of Google amounts to imposition of unfair and discriminatory conditions, denial of market access for competing apps of Google Pay and leveraging on part of Google, in terms of different provisions of section 4(2) of the Act,” it noted. The DG has been directed to submit the report in 60 days.