What New Norms Have Been Issued to Combat Illegal Radio Equipment Sales?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a decisive move, the Central Consumer Protection Authority has introduced new guidelines aimed at preventing the illegal sale of radio equipment on e-commerce sites. These regulations are crucial for consumer safety and ensure compliance with licensing laws, marking a significant step towards protecting citizens from unauthorized wireless devices.
Key Takeaways
- New guidelines issued by CCPA to regulate radio equipment sales.
- Compliance with licensing laws is now mandatory.
- Product listings must include detailed frequency and technical information.
- Misleading advertisements are strictly prohibited.
- Penalties for violations are outlined under the Consumer Protection Act.
New Delhi, May 30 (NationPress) The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), operating under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, has taken significant steps to address the illegal sale of radio equipment on e-commerce platforms. On Friday, they unveiled the Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Illegal Listing and Sale of Radio Equipment, specifically targeting devices like walkie-talkies, effective from 2025. The aim is to combat the unauthorized sale of wireless devices that could endanger consumer safety.
The Ministry pointed out that these devices can mislead users about their legal status and disrupt essential communication networks, including those utilized by law enforcement and emergency services.
After thorough inter-ministerial consultations with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), it became evident that walkie-talkies were being marketed on e-commerce sites without the necessary and clear disclosures regarding the need for a wireless operating license or adherence to relevant laws.
Many product listings failed to indicate whether a license from the relevant authority is required for usage.
According to the Ministry, “The lack of information regarding frequency range, licensing obligations under the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, the Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, and the Use of Low Power, Very Low Power Short Range Radio Frequency Devices (Exemption from Licensing Requirement) Rules, 2018, as well as the potential legal ramifications of unauthorized use, misleads consumers into thinking that these devices can be freely operated by the general public.”
The newly established guidelines stipulate that only authorized and compliant walkie-talkie devices operating on permitted frequencies can be sold on online platforms.
It is now mandatory for product listings to detail frequency ranges and other technical specifications, along with proof of regulatory approval (equipment type approval). E-commerce companies are required to perform due diligence and verify compliance with regulations, including licensing where necessary, and to remove any listings lacking frequency information or required certification.
The guidelines also ban misleading advertisements or product descriptions that could mislead consumers regarding the lawful use of such devices.
Sellers must ensure that equipment for sale does not operate on frequencies that require frequency assignment and authorization by the DoT and must clearly label the frequency bands on the product description.
Furthermore, the guidelines outline penalties and enforcement mechanisms for violations as per the Consumer Protection Act of 2019.
Previously, the CCPA had issued 13 notices concerning 16,970 product listings to major digital marketplaces regarding the listing and sale of walkie-talkies on e-commerce sites. These listings lacked proper frequency disclosures, licensing information, or Equipment Type Approval (ETA), thus violating the Consumer Protection Act of 2019.
“These platforms are under continuous monitoring and scrutiny, in addition to being notified of the guidelines,” stated the Ministry.
Point of View
Safeguarding public interests while fostering a fair environment for legitimate sellers. As the e-commerce landscape evolves, such regulations are essential for maintaining trust and accountability.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new guidelines related to radio equipment sales?
The new guidelines aim to prevent the illegal sale of radio equipment, including walkie-talkies, on e-commerce platforms by requiring clear disclosures about licensing and compliance with applicable laws.
Why are these guidelines important?
These guidelines are crucial for protecting consumer safety and ensuring that unauthorized wireless devices do not disrupt critical communication networks used by law enforcement and emergency services.
What penalties are outlined in the guidelines?
The guidelines specify penalties and enforcement mechanisms for violations under the Consumer Protection Act of 2019, ensuring accountability in the e-commerce sector.
How will the CCPA enforce these guidelines?
The CCPA will monitor e-commerce platforms for compliance, issuing notices against listings that violate the new regulations, particularly those lacking necessary disclosures.
What should consumers look out for when purchasing radio equipment online?
Consumers should ensure that any radio equipment they purchase comes with clear information about frequency ranges, licensing requirements, and proof of regulatory approval.
