Amazon, Flipkart, and others delist walkie-talkie after govt’s advice
In a recent move, 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 unauthorised sale of radio communication devices online, which can potentially interfere with communication systems used by government bodies.
The guidelines, issued by the Ministry of Communications, mandate the sale of walkie-talkies operating within permitted frequency bands. The move is aimed at regulating the online sale of radio equipment, including walkie-talkies, to prevent unauthorized use and potential interference with critical communication systems.
Walkie-talkies, also known as two-way radios or PMRs (Private Mobile Radios), are devices that enable users to communicate with each other over short distances. While they are commonly used in various industries, including construction, hospitality, and event management, they can also be misused if not properly regulated.
The guidelines issued by the Ministry of Communications specify that only walkie-talkies operating within permitted frequency bands, as notified by the Union Telecommunications Department, shall be sold online. The frequency bands, which are allocated for specific purposes, include bands for public safety, emergency services, and other critical communication systems.
The guidelines also require e-commerce platforms to ensure that only authorized dealers and manufacturers sell walkie-talkies on their platforms. This means that sellers must obtain necessary licenses and permits before listing their products on the platforms.
In addition, the guidelines instruct e-commerce platforms to verify the authenticity of walkie-talkie products and ensure that they comply with the relevant laws and regulations. This includes verifying the frequency bands and other technical specifications of the products.
The move is seen as a significant step towards regulating the online sale of radio equipment and preventing unauthorized use. The government’s decision to issue guidelines for the sale of walkie-talkies is aimed at ensuring that these devices are used only for legitimate purposes and do not interfere with critical communication systems.
The guidelines are also expected to benefit the public and private sectors, which rely heavily on critical communication systems for their operations. By regulating the sale of walkie-talkies, the government is taking a proactive step towards ensuring the integrity and reliability of these systems.
The development is expected to have far-reaching implications for the online sale of radio equipment in India. E-commerce platforms will need to ensure that they comply with the guidelines and remove any flagged walkie-talkie listings from their websites. This may require them to conduct thorough verifications of the products they sell and ensure that they comply with the relevant laws and regulations.
In addition, the guidelines are expected to benefit consumers, who will have greater confidence in the authenticity and quality of the walkie-talkie products they purchase online. By purchasing products from authorized dealers and manufacturers, consumers can be assured that they are buying products that meet the required standards and specifications.
The move is also expected to have implications for the Indian radio equipment industry, which is expected to benefit from the increased focus on regulation and compliance. The industry is likely to see an increase in demand for walkie-talkies that comply with the guidelines, leading to increased sales and revenue for manufacturers and dealers.
In conclusion, the decision by Amazon, Flipkart, and others to delist walkie-talkie listings from their websites is a significant step towards regulating the online sale of radio equipment in India. The guidelines issued by the Ministry of Communications are aimed at preventing unauthorized use of walkie-talkies and ensuring that these devices are used only for legitimate purposes.
The move is expected to benefit the public and private sectors, as well as consumers, by ensuring the integrity and reliability of critical communication systems. It is also expected to have far-reaching implications for the online sale of radio equipment in India, with e-commerce platforms and manufacturers needing to comply with the guidelines to remain in business.
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