The CCI recently released its Annual Report for the year 2010 – 2011.

It is notable that the total number of matters pending before the Commission at the end of the year seems to have risen to 99 from 78 in the previous year. This is deduced as the total number of matters pending before the Commission were 155 out of which 47 should have been disposed off as no prima – facie violations of law were noticed. Furthermore, another 8 matters were disposed of under section 26(6), i.e., under the recommendation of the Director – General. Finally, 1 order was passed under section 27 where the offence was proved.

Granted, it isn’t a large backlog and there isn’t much of a reason to complain considering the reputation of the Indian judicial and tribunal system. However, the disposal rate of the Commission where the offence stands proved is worrying. Especially since the Director – General’s office seems to be extremely efficient, having submitted 66 reports to the Commission, with a disposal rate of an impressive 80.5 percent.

The Competition Commission of India now has a group on Linkedin. While it may not be an official group, and has not been started a member of the CCI, the presence of such a group is important in order to help the Commission to better interact with all stakeholders in the Commissions work. More importantly, it helps to develop a common portal to discuss the work of the CCI, which should help grow the understanding of competition law in India.

Heres hoping the Commission realises the potential of such online interactive portals.