Asian Paints is pushing back against a Competition Commission of India (CCI) investigation triggered by rival Birla Opus, which has accused the market leader of using its dominant position to limit dealer freedom and pressure suppliers.
The case landed in the Mumbai High Court on
August 6, where Asian Paints argued the investigation order was mishandled and based on flawed reasoning. The company insists its business practices are fair and above board.
If the probe moves ahead and CCI rules against Asian Paints, the company could face heavy fines and be forced to change long-standing sales policies. The outcome will be closely watched across the industry, especially as new entrants like Birla Opus and JSW Paints look to chip away at Asian Paints’ massive market share.