BackMonsanto moves Delhi HC against CCI’s order allowing probe of top officials
Monsanto objected to a probe of its officials claiming that such an investigation could only be allowed if a company does not comply with orders
Premium
New Delhi: Technology seed giant Mahyco Monsanto Biotech (India) Pvt. Ltd approached the Delhi high court on Monday against a Competition Commission of India (CCI) order that rejected its challenge against probing the role of the company’s top officials for anti-competitive practices.
Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva before whom the matter was brought said that the issue would be heard in detail on the next date.
Monsanto and its group company, Mahyco Monsanto Biotech (India) Pvt. Ltd have challenged CCI’s order of 26 July and objected to a probe of its officials while claiming that such a probe could only be allowed if a company does not comply with orders.
The CCI order had asked the seed company to cooperate with the investigation initiated against its officials.
Holding officials of a company responsible for anti-competitive and discriminatory practices while conducting affairs of the company, the order held that the director general was duty bound to look into the role of all persons behind the conduct of a company.
It further held that if an investigation was required to be made by the director general for unfair business practices, all aspects including ‘role of any person in charge of and responsible for conduct of the business’ would be considered.
Earlier this year, CCI had ordered a detailed probe against genetically modified seed major Monsanto based on prima facie evidence of violating competition norms.
The matter will be heard next on 31 August.
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!
