# CCPA Takes Strict Action Against Illegal Walkie-Talkie Sales on E-Commerce Platforms
Main Highlights
# CCPA Takes Strict Action Against Illegal Walkie-Talkie Sales on E-Commerce Platforms
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has initiated stringent measures against the sale of illegal walkie-talkies on various e-commerce platforms. In a significant crackdown, the CCPA has imposed fines totaling ₹4.4 million on eight companies, including major players such as Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, and Meta. The illegal walkie-talkies being sold lacked the necessary licenses or technical approvals, violating the Consumer Protection Act of 2019 and telecom regulations.
Detailed Analysis
## Investigation Reveals Over 16,000 Non-Compliant Products
An investigation revealed that more than 16,970 products listed on these websites did not meet safety standards. According to Nidhi Khare, Secretary of Consumer Affairs, a fine of ₹1 million each was levied on Meesho, Meta, Flipkart, and Amazon. Additionally, Chimya, JioMart, Talk Pro, and Maskman Toys were fined ₹100,000 each. While Meesho, Meta, Chimya, JioMart, and Talk Pro have complied with the penalty payment, the remaining companies are yet to settle their dues.
## Strict Regulations Governing Walkie-Talkie Use in India
Why This News Matters
This issue came to light when it was discovered that these platforms were selling Personal Mobile Radios (PMRs) without any licenses. In India, strict regulations govern the use of walkie-talkies, allowing only those that operate on frequencies between 446.0 to 446.2 megahertz (MHz) to be used without a license. The CCPA’s investigation also found that many devices were operating outside this specified frequency range and lacked the mandatory ‘Equipment Type Approval’ (ETA) certification, which is essential for selling any wireless device in India.
## National Security Concerns Raised
The CCPA has issued a warning that unauthorized radio devices pose a serious threat to national security. These devices can interfere with communication networks used by police, disaster management, and other emergency services. If these devices disrupt sensitive frequencies, it could have detrimental effects on crucial government operations.
## E-Commerce Companies’ Defense Rejected
During the hearings, several companies argued that they were merely acting as intermediaries and were not responsible for the products sold by third-party sellers. However, the CCPA dismissed this argument. The authority stated that platforms hosting, listing, and promoting products cannot evade their responsibilities. Companies are required to use their technology to prevent the listing of illegal items.
## New Guidelines for E-Commerce Companies
To ensure accountability among e-commerce companies, the CCPA has released new guidelines titled ‘Prevention of Illegal Listing and Sale of Radio Equipment – 2025.’ These guidelines were formulated in consultation with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs. Compliance with these new regulations will now be mandatory for all companies operating on e-commerce platforms.
## Conclusion
The CCPA’s decisive actions against the sale of illegal walkie-talkies underline the importance of consumer safety and regulatory compliance in the e-commerce sector. As the digital marketplace continues to expand, it is crucial for companies to adhere to legal standards and ensure that all products sold meet safety and regulatory requirements. The implementation of the new guidelines aims to bolster consumer protection and maintain the integrity of communication systems in India.
With ongoing vigilance and strict enforcement, the CCPA aims to create a safer online shopping environment for consumers while safeguarding national security interests.
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