Why in news?
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) launched a preliminary inquiry in December 2025 into allegations that low‑cost carrier IndiGo exploited flight cancellations to hike ticket prices during the festive season. The commission will decide whether a full investigation is warranted after analysing passenger complaints and fare data.
Background
The CCI is a statutory body established under the Competition Act 2002 to promote fair competition and prevent practices that harm consumers. It became fully functional in 2009 and operates under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. The commission comprises a chairperson and up to six members appointed by the central government.
Mandate and powers
- Eliminating anti‑competitive practices: The CCI investigates agreements or conduct that restrict competition, such as cartels, bid‑rigging or abuse of dominant position.
- Regulating combinations: Mergers, acquisitions and amalgamations above a certain threshold require the commission’s approval to ensure they do not appreciably lessen competition.
- Protecting consumer interests: The CCI orders remedies and imposes penalties to safeguard consumers and promote innovation.
- Advisory role: It advises the government on competition policy and advocates for pro‑competitive reforms in markets ranging from digital services to agriculture.
Recent case: IndiGo flights
IndiGo cancelled thousands of flights in late 2025 due to maintenance of Pratt & Whitney engines, leading to soaring airfares. Passengers alleged that the airline colluded with partners to restrict supply and raise prices. The CCI’s preliminary review will examine whether the cancellations constituted an anti‑competitive practice and whether other carriers benefited unfairly. If evidence supports wrongdoing, the commission may order a detailed investigation and impose penalties.
Significance
- An effective competition watchdog protects consumers from cartelisation and abuse of dominance, ensuring efficient markets.
- Timely intervention can deter anti‑competitive behaviour in critical sectors like aviation, where limited capacity can easily distort prices.
- The CCI’s decisions influence investor confidence and India’s reputation as a fair marketplace.
