India CCPA notices e-commerce platforms for restricted device sales

The India===Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued notices to six e-commerce platforms, including IndiaMART InterMESH, Everse, Xboom, Javiat Aerospace, AirONE Robotics, and Maveric Drones and Technologies, for allegedly listing and selling restricted wireless transmitting devices such as anti-drone systems, drone jammers, and GPS jammers. The CCPA states that these actions violate the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and other applicable telecom and trade control laws in India. The platforms are accused of misleading consumers by not disclosing mandatory licensing requirements, valid Equipment Type Approval (ETA) or Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) certification details, and failing to clearly state that civilian possession and use without statutory authorization is prohibited. The CCPA has demanded detailed information from these entities, including procurement sources, import licenses, regulatory approvals from bodies like the India===Department of Telecommunications, India===Directorate General of Foreign Trade, and India===Interior ministry, sales data for the past two years, and steps taken to discontinue such listings. This regulatory action underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and enforcing compliance in digital marketplaces.