The Supreme Court has declined to intervene in an ongoing investigation by the Competition Commission of India into allegations of abuse of dominance by broadcaster JioStar in Kerala’s cable television market, as per news reports.
On Tuesday, a bench comprising Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice Sandeep Mehta refused to stay the probe initiated by the Competition Commission of India.
The court observed that the proceedings were at an initial stage and that JioStar could raise all objections after the investigation concludes.
The case originated from a complaint filed by Asianet Digital Network, which alleged that JioStar violated Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2002.
The complaint accused JioStar of leveraging exclusive sports broadcasting rights and a strong channel presence in Kerala to impose discriminatory pricing practices.
Asianet Digital claimed that JioStar offered discounts exceeding 50% to a rival multi system operator through marketing arrangements.
These arrangements were alleged to bypass regulatory caps on cumulative discounts, thereby restricting market access for competing cable operators.
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On February 28, 2022, the CCI recorded a prima facie opinion that the conduct required detailed scrutiny. It directed its Director General to initiate an investigation under Section 26(1) of the Competition Act, 2002.
JioStar challenged the CCI order before the Kerala High Court, arguing that the matter fell under the jurisdiction of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.
A single judge dismissed the plea in May 2025, and the Division Bench later upheld the CCI’s jurisdiction. The Supreme Court has now declined to halt the probe, reiterating that the inquiry remains preliminary.
The Supreme Court’s decision allows the Competition Commission of India to proceed with its investigation into the allegations against JioStar. The ruling maintains the distinction between regulatory oversight and competition law enforcement, leaving all substantive issues open for examination after the inquiry is completed.
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Published on: Jan 28, 2026, 10:44 AM IST
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