JSPL files complaint against railways with CCI

Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL) has filed a complaint with competition watchdog Competition Commission of India (CCI) against the Indian Railways for entering into an “exclusive agreement” with state-run Steel Authority of India (SAIL) for supply of products. 

“JSPL has filed a complaint with the CCI as it feels that exclusive agreement between SAIL and the Indian Railways would mar the company’s chance of getting contracts in future," a CCI official said. 

JSPL was given a contract by the Railways for laying rail tracks, sources said. Later for a similar project, the Railways and SAIL entered into an exclusive agreement, which is being objected by the company, they added. 

The exclusive agreement between Indian Railways and SAIL, JSPL contended, could kill the company's chance for competing for a project through competitive bids. 

When contacted, a senior official of JSPL confirmed having filed such a complaint but did not give any details. 

JSPL, according to CCI, has filed the complaint under Section 3 of the CCI Act, which deals with anti-competitive agreements entered into by companies that may lead to unfair competition in industry. 

The CCI, however, has to admit the case, which is likely to come up for consideration some time later in the week. 

If the Commission decides to admit the case, it will be referred to CCI’s Director General for investigation.