In an effort to enhance consumer safety and protect critical communication networks, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, has released the Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Illegal Listing and Sale of Radio Equipment, including Walkie-Talkies, on E-Commerce Platforms, 2025.

The new regulations aim to address the unauthorized sale of wireless devices that are frequently listed online without proper legal or technical disclosures. Such devices, particularly walkie-talkies, can interfere with essential communication systems used by law enforcement, emergency services, and other government agencies. They may also mislead consumers regarding the legality of their usage.

The guidelines, finalized after consultations with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), are intended to ensure that only compliant and approved radio equipment is available for public purchase through digital marketplaces. The comprehensive framework incorporates inputs from both regulatory and security agencies to safeguard public interest and the national communication infrastructure.

Key Provisions In The Guidelines Include:

• Only authorized walkie-talkies operating on approved frequencies can be listed for sale online.
  
• All product listings must clearly state the device’s frequency range, licensing requirements, and proof of regulatory approval, such as Equipment Type Approval (ETA).
  
• E-commerce platforms must verify the legal compliance of listed products and sellers and remove listings that fail to meet regulatory standards.
  
• Misleading advertisements that imply unrestricted use of such devices are explicitly banned.
  
• Devices operating on non-exempted frequency bands must not be sold without appropriate licenses or authorization from the DoT.
  
• The guidelines also outline penalties for violations, enforceable under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

This action follows the CCPA's previous enforcement drive, where it issued 13 notices covering nearly 17,000 product listings for violating consumer protection laws. These listings, found on major e-commerce platforms, lacked necessary frequency and licensing disclosures.