Alleged Violations of Consumer and Telecom Laws
The CCPA noted that the devices were listed without clearly disclosing mandatory licensing requirements. In several instances, there was no mention of valid Equipment Type Approval (ETA) or certification from the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
Authorities also observed that listings failed to inform buyers that civilian possession and usage of such equipment without statutory authorisation is prohibited. This omission, the regulator believes, could mislead consumers into assuming that the products are freely purchasable.
Under Sections 2(47), 18, and 19 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, misleading advertisements and unfair trade practices are actionable offences. The CCPA has indicated that such online listings may fall within these provisions.
Details Sought From Platforms
The regulator has directed the six entities to provide comprehensive documentation related to the products. This includes details of procurement or import, copies of import licences, invoices, and related records.
Additionally, the platforms have been asked to furnish copies of regulatory approvals from authorities such as the WPC, DoT, Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and the Cabinet Secretariat, wherever applicable.
The CCPA has also sought information on the number of units sold over the past two years, along with complete purchaser details. Further, platforms must disclose particulars of third-party sellers offering similar equipment and explain steps taken to remove such listings and prevent recurrence.
Strict Regulatory Framework
Drone jammers and signal jamming devices are tightly regulated in India under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933. Licensing and regulatory oversight fall under the Department of Telecommunications and its WPC wing.
Import of such restricted equipment is governed by the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, and corresponding DGFT notifications. Typically, these devices are permitted only for authorised government agencies and law enforcement bodies, subject to statutory approvals.
Marketplace entities are required to exercise due diligence under Rule 4 of the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020. Hosting or facilitating the sale of restricted wireless equipment without verifying statutory compliance may attract penal consequences under multiple laws.
Earlier Advisory and Ongoing Vigilance
The CCPA had earlier issued an advisory cautioning e-commerce platforms against facilitating the illegal sale of wireless jammers. The latest notices indicate a renewed push to enforce compliance and protect consumers from misleading listings.
The authority reiterated its commitment to ensuring that regulated or restricted products are not unlawfully made available through digital marketplaces. Consumers have been urged to verify legal requirements before purchasing specialised electronic equipment.
