National Desk
25 February
Ludhiana
Sandeep Dhand
The Supreme Court today refused to entertain a petition seeking regulation of internet data prices in the country. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar dismissed the petition, stating that consumers have multiple service provider options in an open market.
The petition was filed by a person named Rajat, who claimed that Jio and Reliance dominate the market, affecting fair competition. However, the bench rejected the argument, stating, “This is an open market. There are multiple options. BSNL and MTNL are also providing internet services.”
The court further advised the petitioner that if he suspected unfair business practices or market monopoly, he should approach the Competition Commission of India (CCI) instead. The bench emphasized that regulating internet prices is not within its purview, as competition among service providers naturally determines pricing.
Despite dismissing the petition, the Supreme Court clarified that the petitioner is free to explore other legal remedies if he wishes to challenge market practices.
This ruling reinforces the judiciary’s stance on maintaining a free-market economy, allowing competition to determine pricing rather than government intervention. The decision is expected to influence future debates on internet pricing and market control in India.