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IHC rules Competition Commission has full powers across all economic sectors
Aftab Maken
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has dismissed petitions filed by several telecom companies against the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP), reaffirming that the commission possesses complete authority to conduct inquiries and take action across all sectors of the economy, including telecommunications.
In its detailed ruling, the court stated that the CCP’s jurisdiction extends to every sphere of the economy, and that regulatory bodies are also subject to its oversight. The judgment emphasized that the purpose of the commission is to prevent anti-competitive practices, ensure market transparency, and protect consumer interests.
The petitions were filed by Jazz, Telenor, Zong, Ufone, Warid, PTCL, and Wi-Tribe, who had challenged show-cause notices issued by the CCP in 2014. The companies had obtained stay orders against the commission’s proceedings, which were initiated over misleading marketing practices.
The CCP had issued the notices after receiving complaints about additional charges on prepaid cards, so-called “service maintenance fees,” and misleading advertisements for “unlimited internet packages.” PTCL was also being investigated for discriminatory pricing in its fixed local loop services segment.
The Islamabad High Court, while rejecting the telecom firms’ petitions, remarked that the Competition Commission plays a vital role in promoting fair competition and transparency in Pakistan’s economy. The court further noted that no commercial entity or regulatory authority can claim exemption from the CCP’s jurisdiction.
By declaring all seven connected petitions inadmissible, the court has effectively validated the Competition Commission’s mandate and investigative powers.
This verdict marks a significant affirmation of the CCP’s oversight across both public and private sectors, reinforcing its role as a key regulatory body ensuring fair market conduct in Pakistan’s economy.
