CCI Issues Cease and Desist Order Against TTFI and its Affiliate

On December 12, 2024, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) passed an order against the Suburban Table Tennis Association (TSTTA), Maharashtra State Table Tennis Association (MSTTA), Gujarat State Table Tennis Association (GSTTA), and Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) for violating the Competition Act, 2002. The case stemmed from a complaint by the TT Friendly Super League Association, alleging anti-competitive practices, including denial of player access to events and restrictive clauses in TTFI’s governing documents.

The CCI found that TTFI and its affiliates held a dominant position in the market for organizing table tennis leagues and tournaments in India. Their actions, such as issuing WhatsApp notices and including restrictive clauses in their bye-laws, hindered competition and prevented players from participating in tournaments, violating Sections 3(4) and 4 of the Act.

While the Commission acknowledged the corrective steps taken by TTFI and its affiliates, such as withdrawing anti-competitive communications and amending restrictive clauses, it issued a cease-and-desist order under Section 27 of the Act. No monetary penalties were imposed, given the corrective actions.