Archive · 27 Sep 2025
NCLAT Reserves Ruling on Meta and WhatsApp Privacy Policy Penalty
Imagine WhatsApp changed its rules about how it shares your info with other companies, like Facebook.
The government, through CCI, said this wasn't fair and fined WhatsApp.
Now, a special court, NCLAT, is looking at the case.
Meta, which owns WhatsApp, doesn't like the fine and is arguing against it.
They say the government's arguments are wrong and they aren't doing anything wrong.
The government says WhatsApp is taking advantage of users and breaking rules.
NCLAT has listened to both sides and will announce its decision later.
The ruling affects a fine and rules about how WhatsApp can share data.
NCLAT heard appeals from Meta and WhatsApp regarding a CCI penalty.
The penalty concerns the 2021 WhatsApp privacy policy update.
CCI had imposed a ₹213.14 crore penalty.
NCLAT directed parties to file written submissions by October 6, 2025.
The NCLAT is reviewing arguments about data sharing and anti-competitive practices.
- Who
- Meta Platforms and WhatsApp, the CCI, and NCLAT
- What
- The NCLAT is deciding on appeals from Meta and WhatsApp regarding a penalty.
- When
- The hearing took place recently with a deadline of October 6, 2025, for written submissions.
- Where
- NCLAT in India.
- Why
- Meta and WhatsApp are appealing a CCI penalty related to their 2021 privacy policy.
Meta & WhatsApp's Stance
CCI's Stance
Data Sharing
Meta & WhatsApp's Stance
CCI's arguments are legally incorrect, ignoring that limited data is shared.
CCI's Stance
WhatsApp abused its position by imposing the 2021 privacy policy.
Jurisdiction
Meta & WhatsApp's Stance
Argument is not explicitly mentioned
CCI's Stance
CCI has jurisdiction as the matter is in public interest and under its domain.
- Parties Involved
- Meta Platforms, WhatsApp, Competition Commission of India (CCI), NCLAT
- Issue
- CCI penalty on Meta regarding WhatsApp privacy policy update
- Penalty Amount
- ₹213.14 crore
- Appellate Body
- National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)
- NCLAT Ruling Status
- Reserved, awaiting final order
- Written Submissions Deadline
- October 6, 2025