Welcome to GKboard.in, your trusted platform for current affairs updates tailored for competitive exams. Today, we explore the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA)’s recent actions against the illegal sale of walkie-talkies on e-commerce platforms, a significant step in ensuring consumer protection. This topic is vital for aspirants preparing for exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government recruitment tests.
CCPA’s Action Against E-Commerce Platforms
Notices for Non-Compliance
The CCPA has issued thirteen notices to major e-commerce platforms, including Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, OLX, and others, for listing and selling walkie-talkies without proper frequency disclosure, licensing information, or Equipment Type Approval (ETA). This violates the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, as it misleads consumers about the legal requirements for using these devices.
Issue with Walkie-Talkie Listings
Missing Regulatory Disclosures
Walkie-talkies are sold on e-commerce platforms without mandatory disclosures about the need for a wireless operating license or compliance with laws like the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the 2018 Exemption Rules. The lack of details on frequency range, licensing obligations, and legal consequences misleads consumers into believing these devices are freely operable, breaching the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020.
Scale of the Problem
Widespread Non-Compliant Listings
A preliminary analysis revealed a significant number of non-compliant walkie-talkie listings across platforms, including approximately 467 listings on Amazon, 314 on Flipkart, 489 on Meesho, and 423 on TradeIndia. These listings often lack frequency specifications, ETA from the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing, and licensing requirements, posing a serious consumer protection issue.
CCPA’s Information Request
Ensuring Accountability
The CCPA has requested detailed information from the platforms, including:
- Seller details and contact information.
- Product URLs and listing IDs for walkie-talkies.
- Frequency specifications and licensing information displayed.
- ETA/WPC certification verification status.
- Sales data per listing from January 2023 to date.
This data will help the CCPA assess the extent of non-compliance and enforce corrective measures.
Upcoming Guidelines
Regulating Wireless Device Sales
To address rampant non-compliance, the CCPA will issue Draft Guidelines under Section 18(2)(l) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The Draft Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Illegal Sale and Use of Licensed Frequency Range Wireless Telegraphy Apparatus, 2025 aim to:
- Ensure due diligence by platforms before listing wireless devices.
- Mandate seller credential and certification verification.
- Introduce automated monitoring and takedown mechanisms for unauthorized listings.
- Promote consumer awareness through proper disclosures.
- Enforce penalties and platform liability for non-compliance.
These guidelines will soon be available for public feedback on the Department of Consumer Affairs website.
Stakeholder Consultation
Promoting Compliance
On May 3, 2025, the Department of Consumer Affairs held a stakeholder consultation meeting, chaired by Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, with platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, IndiaMart, and Meta. The meeting emphasized regulatory compliance and directed platforms to proactively monitor and delist non-compliant sellers to curb illegal wireless device sales.
CCPA’s Proactive Approach
Previous Interventions
The CCPA has a history of proactive action. Following a communication from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways about illegal car seat belt alarm stopper clips, the CCPA issued an advisory, leading to the removal of 13,118 listings from e-commerce platforms. This demonstrates the authority’s commitment to a safe and transparent digital marketplace.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Key Takeaways for Students
The CCPA’s actions against illegal walkie-talkie sales are a crucial topic for competitive exam aspirants, as questions on consumer protection, e-commerce regulations, and government initiatives frequently appear in exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking. Focus on the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, CCPA guidelines, and e-commerce compliance to excel in your preparation.
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Posted on: May 9, 2025