Asian Paints Seeks to Halt Antitrust Probe, Citing Procedural Errors

Asian Paints, India's largest paint manufacturer, has filed a legal challenge in the Mumbai High Court seeking to quash an ongoing antitrust investigation by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), as per news reports. The company alleges reputational harm stemming from a procedural lapse in the CCI's order, which initially included and later deleted sensitive allegations against its CEO.

Market Dominance and Probe Origin

Driven by rapid infrastructure and real estate growth, India's paints sector has become a lucrative $9.5 billion market. Asian Paints, which holds a 52% market share, is currently under investigation after the CCI found merit in a complaint filed by Birla Opus, a new rival, accusing the company of abusing its dominant position by offering discounts and incentives to dealers. The case has put fresh focus on competition practices within this fast-expanding industry.

Deleted Claims and Dual Orders Raise Concerns

In its 14 July court filing, Asian Paints revealed that the CCI’s original order dated 1 July contained an allegation stating that CEO Amit Syngle had warned raw material suppliers that they would receive less business from Asian Paints if they dealt with Birla. The statement was removed in a revised order issued within 24 hours, but both versions remain publicly accessible.

“The concurrent existence of two different orders ... has undermined the integrity of the proceedings, creating confusion in the market,” the company stated in its petition.

Asian Paints also submitted a table showing other deletions, such as the removal of a line noting concern about dealers using Birla’s paint devices. The company alleges that the CCI acted with a “premeditated mind.”

Also Read: Adani Group Applies for CCI Approval to Acquire Jaiprakash Associates!

Asian Paints Share Price Performance 

As of July 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM, Asian Paints share price is trading at ₹2,344 per share, reflecting a gain of 0.33%. Over the past month, the stock has gained by 0.12%.

Conclusion

Asian Paints’ legal challenge not only highlights reputational harm but also raises serious questions about procedural fairness and regulatory transparency. As the antitrust battle unfolds, the case could significantly shape how India’s booming paint industry is governed and contested in the years to come.

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