New Rules to Curb Illegal Radio Sales

On 30th May 2025, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued new guidelines to stop the illegal sale of radio equipment like walkie-talkies on e-commerce platforms due to concerns over public safety and legal compliance.

The Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Illegal Listing and Sale of Radio Equipment on E-Commerce Platforms, 2025, were issued by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs to address unauthorised wireless device sales that could interfere with emergency and law enforcement networks.
These guidelines were framed after inter-ministerial consultations with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), following concerns that walkie-talkies are being sold online without proper disclosure about licensing requirements.
Sellers are now required to provide clear information such as the frequency range of the equipment, licensing obligations under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and also mention whether the product is exempt under the 2018 low-power radio frequency rules.
E-commerce platforms must verify regulatory compliance before allowing such devices to be listed for sale, ensuring sellers provide proof of Equipment Type Approval (ETA) and clearly specify all technical parameters.