Amazon, Flipkart & others delist walkie-talkie after govt’s advice
In a recent development, e-commerce giants Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, JioMart, and others have removed flagged walkie-talkie listings from their websites. This decision comes after the Centre issued guidelines for the prevention of unauthorized sale of radio communication devices online. The guidelines mandate the sale of walkie-talkies operating within permitted frequency bands.
The guidelines were issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to regulate the sale of radio communication devices online. The move is aimed at preventing the misuse of walkie-talkies that can interfere with communication systems used by government bodies, emergency services, and other critical infrastructure.
As per the guidelines, all online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms are required to ensure that the walkie-talkies sold on their platforms operate within the permitted frequency bands. The guidelines also mandate that the devices sold online must be in compliance with the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933.
The move is seen as a significant step towards ensuring the security and integrity of India’s communication systems. Walkie-talkies are widely used for various purposes, including commercial, recreational, and emergency services. However, if not used properly, they can cause interference with critical communication systems, leading to disruptions and even compromise national security.
Prior to the issuance of the guidelines, various online marketplaces, including Amazon and Flipkart, were selling walkie-talkies that did not operate within the permitted frequency bands. This had raised concerns among government agencies and other stakeholders about the potential misuse of these devices.
The e-commerce companies have been directed to delist any walkie-talkie listings that do not comply with the guidelines. The companies have also been asked to ensure that the devices sold on their platforms are certified by the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933.
The guidelines are seen as a significant step towards regulating the sale of radio communication devices online. The move is also expected to boost the confidence of consumers in the e-commerce sector, as they can now be assured that the devices sold online are safe and compliant with the relevant laws and regulations.
What are the implications of the guidelines?
The guidelines issued by the DoT and MeitY have far-reaching implications for the e-commerce sector, online marketplaces, and consumers. Here are some of the key implications:
- Ensuring compliance: The guidelines will ensure that all online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms comply with the relevant laws and regulations regarding the sale of radio communication devices.
- Safety and security: The guidelines will prevent the misuse of walkie-talkies that can cause interference with critical communication systems, ensuring the safety and security of the public.
- Boosting consumer confidence: The guidelines will boost consumer confidence in the e-commerce sector, as they can now be assured that the devices sold online are safe and compliant with the relevant laws and regulations.
- Increased transparency: The guidelines will increase transparency in the e-commerce sector, as online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms will be required to disclose the frequency bands and certifications of the walkie-talkies sold on their platforms.
Conclusion
The guidelines issued by the DoT and MeitY are a significant step towards regulating the sale of radio communication devices online. The guidelines will ensure that all online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms comply with the relevant laws and regulations, preventing the misuse of walkie-talkies and ensuring the safety and security of the public. The move is also expected to boost consumer confidence in the e-commerce sector, as consumers can now be assured that the devices sold online are safe and compliant with the relevant laws and regulations.
