The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has notified revised commitment regulations effective August 18, extending the timeline for filing such applications from 45 days to 60 days. The regulator increased the period available for preliminary consideration from seven to 15 working days and the overall timeline from 130 days to 180 days. As reported by Business Standard, these changes were based on experience gained from implementing the framework, which revealed certain administrative and procedural issues related to prescribed timelines, rectification of defects in applications, and lack of clarity over adjustment of fees and consequences of invalid applications.
The CCI is currently considering two major commitment applications that could set important precedents for the settlement mechanism. Google's application relates to a probe into alleged unfair business practices regarding the listing of real-money gaming apps on the Play Store, while InterGlobe Aviation Limited (operating IndiGo) has filed a commitment application in relation to an abuse-of-dominance investigation arising from widespread flight disruptions in December 2025. According to Business Standard, public consultation for both applications has been completed and the Commission must take a final decision on the matters. The settlement and commitment option is available only to those facing inquiries into abuse of dominant position, with cartels excluded from the mechanism.
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is facing a critical shortage of members after one member resigned in July and another is due to complete his term in September. According to reports from Business Standard, member Anil Agarwal resigned on July 14 after a three-year tenure, while member Deepak Anurag's term will end in September. This leaves the antitrust watchdog with only two members remaining, raising serious concerns about its ability to function effectively. With both positions falling vacant, the fair trade regulator will be left with only Chairperson Ravneet Kaur and Sweta Kakkad as the other serving member, leaving it with a reduced strength to meet the quorum required for functioning.
Under Section 22(3) of the Competition Act, 2002, the Commission requires a minimum quorum of three members (including the Chairperson) to conduct meetings and make decisions on anti-trust, market conduct, or merger matters. As reported by Business Standard, the CCI could continue clearing mergers and acquisitions under the doctrine of necessity even with a two-member quorum. However, antitrust matters could come to a halt in the absence of the required quorum. The doctrine of necessity enables legal authorities to take actions that would otherwise be outside the scope of the law in specific circumstances.
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has invited applications to fill the vacant positions, with applications accepted until September 28. The notification specifies that eligible candidates must have special knowledge of international trade, economics, business, commerce, law, finance, accountancy, management, industry, technology, public affairs or competition matters. They must also have at least 15 years of professional experience and demonstrate ability, integrity and standing that would be useful to the Commission. Appointments will be for five years from the date of joining or till the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier, with members receiving a consolidated monthly salary of ₹5 lakh and not entitled to a house or car.
