Mumbai, September 1

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has accused Google Inc of abusing its dominant position in online search, people with knowledge of the matter said, which if proven could force the US company to alter its practices in a key market or even pay a big fine.

A preliminary report from the quasi-judicial regulatory body found fault with Google’s handling of its online advertising services and search results, said the people.

Google, which just last month appointed India-born Sundar Pichai as its new CEO, is already facing a billion-euro fine from the European Union after accusations the company cheated competitors by distorting internet search results in favour of its shopping service. Google has rejected those charges.

The regulator first began investigating Google in 2012, and a preliminary report was submitted to the top CCI officials about six months ago. The findings of that report have been mentioned in the local media in the last few days.

The CCI is expected to make a final ruling after a hearing on September 17, where Google will present itself before a seven-person CCI panel, the people said.

CCI Chairperson Ashok Chawla was not immediately reachable over the phone for comments.

“We’re currently reviewing this report from CCI’s ongoing investigation,” a Google spokesman said in a statement. “We continue to work closely with CCI and remain confident that we comply fully with India’s competition laws.”