New Delhi : The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has ordered a probe against broadcasters — Star India and Sony Pictures Network India — for allegedly indulging in unfair business practices with regard to pricing of television channels.
The regulator has ordered a detailed investigation on a complaint filed by Noida Software Technology Park, which is into the business of satellite communication. The CCI has directed its investigation arm — Director General — to probe whether Star India and Sony Pictures Network India refused to deal with Noida Software Technology by way of price discrimination.
The DG has also been directed to look into the role of the persons/ officers who were in-charge of and responsible for the conduct of the businesses at the time of the alleged contravention, the order, dated July 27, said.
The regulator said that broadcasters had the ability to discriminate amongst distributors and use RIO-based agreements as a mechanism of refusal to deal.
