The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has issued a cease-and-desist order against the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) and its affiliate organisations, including the Suburban Table Tennis Association (TSTTA), Maharashtra State Table Tennis Association (MSTTA), and Gujarat State Table Tennis Association (GSTTA). The order, dated 12th December 2024, found these organisations in violation of Sections 3(4) and 4 of the Competition Act, 2002, for engaging in practices amounting to refusal to deal and abuse of dominance.
The case was initiated following a complaint filed by the TT Friendly Super League Association under Section 19(1)(a) of the Act. The complaint highlighted anti-competitive practices by TTFI and its affiliates, including restrictions on table tennis players’ participation in non-TTFI events. These restrictions were allegedly enforced through a WhatsApp advisory issued by TSTTA and through clauses in TTFI’s Memorandum of Association that limited access to players for independent tournaments.
After examining the evidence, the CCI determined that TTFI and its affiliates held a dominant position in organising table tennis tournaments and providing related services in India. The Commission concluded that actions such as the issuance of advisories, public notices, and restrictive by-laws constituted an abuse of dominance. These practices hindered independent organisations from hosting tournaments and restricted players from participating in non-TTFI events, violating Sections 3(4) and 4 of the Competition Act.
In response to the investigation, TTFI and its affiliates took several corrective measures. They withdrew anti-competitive communications, amended restrictive clauses in their governing documents, and issued advisories to foster open competition in table tennis. The CCI acknowledged these steps as efforts to address the concerns raised during the inquiry.
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In light of these corrective actions, the CCI decided not to impose monetary penalties and instead issued a cease-and-desist order under Section 27 of the Act. The directive requires TTFI and its affiliates to cease all practices that are inconsistent with competitive norms and ensure compliance with the Competition Act moving forward.
The CCI’s decision, issued under Case No. 19 of 2021, underscores the importance of fair and competitive practices in sports administration. It aims to promote a level playing field for players and tournament organisers in India. A detailed copy of the order is available on the CCI website.
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