We will not allow you to share even a single data: SC pulls up Meta, WhatsApp over 2021 privacy policy

Core Viewpoint - The Supreme Court is hearing appeals from Meta Platforms and WhatsApp regarding a penalty imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) for abuse of market dominance related to WhatsApp's 2021 privacy policy, emphasizing user privacy and data sharing issues [1][3]. Group 1: Legal Proceedings - The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, is reviewing challenges to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) order that upheld a penalty of ₹213 crore (approximately $25.7 million) against WhatsApp and Meta for their 2021 privacy policy [1][3]. - The court has mandated WhatsApp and Meta to submit an affidavit confirming they will not share user data, warning that failure to do so could result in the dismissal of their appeals [3]. Group 2: Market Dominance and Consumer Rights - Chief Justice Surya Kant criticized WhatsApp's market dominance, stating that the company has created a monopoly and that consumers have no real choice, which undermines their privacy rights [2][3]. - The court expressed strong disapproval of the companies' practices, suggesting that they are compromising the constitutional rights of consumers by exploiting their personal data without adequate consent [2][3]. Group 3: Company Defense - Senior counsel for Meta and WhatsApp argued that the service is free and that not all user data is shared, only specific data, indicating a defense against the claims of monopolistic practices [2][3].