CCPA penalizes seven online platforms over hazardous explosives listings

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has initiated regulatory action against seven digital platforms for the unauthorized listing, advertising, and facilitation of regulated, hazardous explosive substances. The substances identified include Ammonium Nitrate, Gun Powder, Picric Acid, and Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (PETN).

As part of the enforcement, 3,940 seller entries were delisted. The CCPA has imposed penalties totaling ₹30 lakh on Dial4Trade and ExportersIndia. Specifically, Dial4Trade was fined ₹10 lakh for the sale of Ammonium Nitrate, an order that was upheld after the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) dismissed the company's appeal. ExportersIndia faced multiple ₹10 lakh penalties regarding the listing of Ammonium Nitrate, PETN, and Picric Acid.

Other major platforms, including IndiaMART and Justdial, are facing ongoing proceedings. IndiaMART recorded the highest volume of affected listings with 3,092 entries and has approached the Delhi High Court to challenge the CCPA's show cause notice. Justdial has sought adjournments in the ongoing matter. Other platforms involved in the regulatory scrutiny include TradeIndia, Sigma-Aldrich India, and Ibuychemikals.