Regulatory Action Against Online Sale of Dangerous Chemicals Intensifies

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has launched measures against digital platforms for the unverified listing and sale of hazardous chemicals. The CCPA has issued notices to e-commerce companies over concerns about the unauthorised promotion and sale of regulated substances online.

These actions come after reports of such illegal listings on sites such as IndiaMART, Justdial, and others. The notices demand information regarding seller identities, compliance with licensing, buyer verification methods, and details of sales and imports. Among the flagged substances are ammonium nitrate and PETN, which are subject to strict legal controls.

The CCPA emphasized that online accessibility to hazardous substances presents significant safety risks. During an initial review, the agency found these goods often listed without safety measures in place, posing threats to public security.

The authority insists on stringent adherence to legal standards, highlighting the responsibility of digital platforms and intermediaries in regulating such sales. The CCPA has collaborated with the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation to review regulations and has shared seller data from e-commerce sites for further investigation. Subsequently, many platforms have started removing or blocking listings of these hazardous materials.

(With inputs from agencies.)