NEW DELHI: Online listings for walkie-talkies that fail to disclose operating frequencies and licence requirements could mislead buyers into believing the devices can be used without regulatory permission, the consumer watchdog has said, imposing a Rs 1 lakh penalty on Hogar Technologies and Innovations LLP.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) found that product listings on the company’s website did not clearly specify the operating frequencies, licensing requirements and regulatory approvals applicable to the devices. The order was passed under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
The action is part of a wider crackdown on misleading advertisements and non-compliant walkie-talkie listings. The authority said it had identified more than 16,970 listings across online platforms and issued notices to 13 e-commerce entities.
The CCPA said consumers need clear information before purchasing wireless devices because their legal use depends on the frequency on which they operate and the applicable regulatory conditions.
Under the 2018 rules governing low-power and very-low-power short-range radio frequency devices, personal mobile radios operating within the prescribed 446.0–446.2 MHz band may be exempt from licensing, subject to specified conditions. Devices operating outside the exempted range are subject to relevant regulatory requirements.
During the proceedings, Hogar Technologies said it held a valid Dealer Possessing Licence and that its devices had the required Equipment Type Approval certifications. The company also argued that its website was intended mainly to provide information and generate leads, rather than facilitate direct online sales.
The CCPA rejected the contention that the absence of a payment gateway or shopping cart placed the website outside consumer protection requirements. It said businesses must provide accurate and complete material information in promotional content, even when purchases are completed through other channels.
The authority observed that holding regulatory approvals does not remove an advertiser’s responsibility to disclose relevant information to prospective buyers. Omitting details about operating frequencies and licence requirements could expose consumers to legal and financial consequences and prevent them from making informed decisions.
The CCPA said it had passed final orders against 12 entities so far, imposing cumulative penalties of ₹58 lakh for misleading advertisements and unfair trade practices involving walkie-talkies.
These include penalties of Rs 10 lakh each on Amazon Seller Services, Flipkart Internet, Meesho, Meta Platforms and TradeIndia. JioMart, Chimiya, MaskMan Toys, Talk Pro, Sanchar Wireless Communications, Antriksh Technosys and Hogar Technologies were each fined Rs 1 lakh.
Some companies have challenged the orders or proceedings before judicial forums. Amazon and Flipkart have approached the Karnataka High Court, while Meta Platforms and TradeIndia have moved the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. In TradeIndia’s case, the commission has directed the company to deposit the penalty amount. IndiaMART InterMESH has approached the Delhi High Court challenging proceedings initiated by the CCPA.
Ends
