IndiaMART and Justdial face regulatory scrutiny over explosive product listings
The Central Consumer Protection Authority of India has launched enforcement actions against seven e-commerce platforms for facilitating the sale of hazardous explosives.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has taken regulatory action against seven Indian e-commerce platforms, including IndiaMART and Justdial, for hosting listings of unauthorized hazardous explosives. Products identified in the crackdown include gunpowder, picric acid, and PETN, substances typically restricted under the Explosives Act of 1884.
Authorities have successfully delisted 3,940 sellers and product entries to date. Financial penalties totaling ₹30 Lakh have been imposed on Dial4Trade and ExportersIndia, with IndiaMART recording the highest number of identified listings at 3,092. The CCPA has issued notices to both IndiaMART and Justdial to explain their role in facilitating these prohibited transactions.
The regulatory dispute is currently moving through the court system. IndiaMART has challenged the CCPA’s notices in the Delhi High Court, while Justdial has repeatedly sought adjournments. The matter is set for a final hearing on October 23. Government officials have emphasized that digital marketplaces are legally obligated to verify seller licenses and buyer identities for all controlled chemical products.