The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has launched a crackdown on the unauthorized online sale and advertisement of hazardous chemicals, explosive substances, and related precursors across digital platforms, citing concerns over consumer safety and national security.
The action, initiated under the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, targets online platforms including IndiaMART, Justdial, Sigma-Aldrich India, Dial4Trade and ExportersIndia, according to statement released by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.
Several regulated and potentially dangerous substances were found being listed or advertised online without adequate safeguards, verification mechanisms, or compliance checks. Authorities warned that unrestricted access to such chemicals could pose serious risks to public safety and may enable unlawful supply channels.
The substances under scrutiny include explosive precursors and hazardous materials such as Ammonium Nitrate, Gun Powder, Picric Acid, and Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (PETN). These chemicals are regulated, restricted, controlled, or prohibited under various laws governing hazardous substances and public safety.
The CCPA has issued notices to the concerned e-commerce entities seeking detailed information regarding seller identities, licensing compliance, buyer verification processes, quantities sold, import details, and regulatory approvals associated with these products.
During the preliminary examination, the authority observed that several platforms may have allowed the listing and sale of hazardous substances without ensuring compliance with applicable legal and regulatory norms.
The consumer watchdog emphasized that digital platforms and intermediaries must exercise due diligence before permitting the advertisement or sale of regulated chemicals and explosive materials.
In continuation of its enforcement drive, the CCPA has issued a total of eight notices to entities allegedly involved in similar violations concerning dangerous and controlled substances.
As part of a coordinated response, the CCPA also held consultations with the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) to review the regulatory framework governing explosive and hazardous substances. Details of sellers operating on these platforms have been shared with PESO for further action under relevant laws.
Following the regulatory intervention, several online platforms have begun removing, blocking, restricting, or delisting listings related to hazardous chemicals and explosive substances.
The move, officials said, is aimed at ensuring that digital marketplaces do not facilitate unauthorized access to dangerous materials in violation of consumer safety standards and existing regulations.
The CCPA said it remains committed to protecting consumer rights, curbing unfair trade practices, and strengthening trust in India’s rapidly expanding e-commerce ecosystem.