The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has initiated regulatory action against the unauthorized online sale and advertisement of hazardous chemicals, explosive substances, and related precursors on digital platforms. The action has been taken under the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, to strengthen consumer safety, public security, and responsible e-commerce practices. In this regard, notices have been issued to major e-commerce platforms regarding listing and sale of regulated substances including Ammonium Nitrate, Gun Powder, Picric Acid and Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate. As part of the coordinated regulatory response, the CCPA also convened a meeting with officials of the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization to examine the existing regulatory framework governing hazardous and explosive substances.
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution informed that following the intervention and enforcement actions several online platforms and entities have started removing, blocking, restricting, or delisting listings related to hazardous chemicals and explosive substances. It added that the action reinforces the Government’s commitment to ensuring that digital marketplaces do not facilitate unauthorized access to regulated or dangerous substances in violation of applicable laws and consumer safety standards.
