E-Commerce Giants Under Fire for Illegal Walkie-Talkie Sales

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has taken decisive action against major e-commerce platforms, including Amazon and Flipkart, for the sale of unauthorized walkie-talkie devices. The move comes at a time of heightened India-Pakistan tensions, raising concerns over national security.

The watchdog has issued notices to 13 digital marketplaces, alleging violations of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, due to the listing of these devices without proper frequency disclosure, licensing details, or Equipment Type Approval (ETA). This action underscores the government's insistence on strict compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.

Union Food and Consumer Minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted the potential national security risks posed by the sale of non-compliant wireless devices. The CCPA plans to issue formal guidelines to bolster consumer protections and ensure adherence to legal standards in e-commerce operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)