Government Probes Quick-Commerce Platforms for Violation of Disclosure Norms

ENA Sectors 2024-10-16 16:14:56 New Delhi, Oct 16 (KNN) The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) has initiated an investigation into complaints against quick commerce platforms for failing to comply with mandatory product disclosure norms. These complaints, received via the National Consumer Helpline, allege that some platforms are not providing essential information such as the products expiry date and retail sales price. According to the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, e-commerce platforms, similar to offline retailers, are required to disclose six key details about packaged products. These include the manufacturers name, net quantity, best-before or expiry date, retail price, and the country of origin. We are reviewing complaints about the absence of these disclosures on quick commerce platforms. If violations are found, appropriate action will be taken, said Nidhi Khare, Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs. This probe comes as quick commerce services—offering rapid delivery of groceries, essentials, and household items—gain significant traction, especially in urban centers. However, the sector has also faced criticism from distributors of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), who have expressed concerns about the unregulated expansion of these platforms. They have called for a thorough investigation into the business practices of the industry. In a related development, DoCA announced that it is preparing to conduct market surveillance on air-purifiers to verify the authenticity of manufacturers' claims. The departments move aims to curb deceptive marketing practices and protect consumer rights. We will check if air-purifier manufacturers are delivering on the claims they advertise, Khare said, adding that these products already fall under the quality control order of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and must comply with ISI standards. Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, addressing an event on World Standards Day, raised concerns about misleading claims made by air-purifier brands. His remarks come as northern cities brace for worsening air quality in winter, which typically leads to a surge in demand for such devices. With two concurrent investigations—one into the quick commerce sectors compliance with consumer protection rules, and the other targeting air-purifier manufacturers—the Department of Consumer Affairs is signaling its intent to ensure greater accountability across sectors. (KNN Bureau) 39608 https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/sectors/government-probes-quick-commerce-platforms-for-violation-of-disclosure-norms 2024-10-16 16:14:56 knnindia.co.in Government Probes Quick-Commerce Platforms for Violation of Disclosure Norms