Policy · Consumer Internet & Media

CCI dismisses abuse of dominance complaint against BookMyShow

By Startup Enthusiast · 13 March 2026

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The Competition Commission of India dismissed a complaint by Showtyme's founder alleging exclusive deals and high fees

The regulator found no abuse of dominance, noting rivals like Paytm and Amazon exist in the market

The decision highlights that market dominance alone is not illegal without proof of abuse

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) dismissed a complaint against BookMyShow for alleged abuse of dominance.
The complaint was filed by Vijay Gopal, founder of Showtyme, a smaller rival.
Gopal alleged BookMyShow had exclusive agreements with cinemas lasting 2-5 years.
He also alleged BookMyShow charged a ₹25 convenience fee and split half with multiplexes.
Showtyme charges an ₹11 fee and shares ₹5 with theatres of all formats.
Gopal claimed BookMyShow gave zero-interest loans to cinemas to secure exclusivity.
The CCI agreed BookMyShow holds a dominant position in the online ticketing market.
However, the CCI found no evidence of abuse under Section 4(2)(c) and dismissed the case.

The CCI noted the presence of Paytm, Justickets, and Amazon as proof the market is not a monopoly.
The regulator dismissed seat-reservation allegations, citing the need to avoid double-booking.
Revenue-sharing allegations were unsubstantiated, as terms depend on scale and negotiations.
Unsold seats are released to theatres before shows for their own discretion.
The decision clarifies that dominance alone is not illegal without proof of abuse.