New Delhi, February 22: The Supreme Court will hear petitions filed by Meta Platforms and WhatsApp on Monday. They are challenging the ₹213.14 crore fine imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) regarding their privacy policy.
The bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, includes Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi. They are expected to deliberate on this significant case.
Earlier, on February 3, the court criticized both companies, stating they cannot compromise citizens’ privacy rights under the guise of data sharing. The bench also pointed out that these platforms are creating monopolistic conditions and misusing users’ personal information.
Expressing concerns over WhatsApp’s privacy policy, the court referred to “silent customers,” who are often unaware of the implications of data-sharing regulations due to their unorganized and digitally dependent status. The judges made it clear that citizens’ rights must not be harmed at any cost.
This case stems from a CCI order that imposed a fine of ₹213.14 crore for alleged violations related to WhatsApp’s privacy policy.
On November 4, 2025, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) annulled part of the CCI’s order that prohibited WhatsApp from sharing user data with Meta for advertising purposes for five years. However, the tribunal upheld the financial penalty.
Later, the NCLAT clarified that its decision regarding privacy and consent-related security provisions would also apply to the collection and sharing of user data for purposes beyond WhatsApp, including both advertising and non-advertising activities.
The Supreme Court previously indicated it would issue an interim order on February 9 and directed the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to become a party in the appeals by both companies.
The court is also hearing a cross-appeal filed by the CCI, challenging the NCLAT’s decision that allowed WhatsApp and Meta to share user data for advertising purposes.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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