The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has initiated regulatory action against the unauthorized online sale and advertisement of hazardous chemicals and explosive substances on digital platforms to strengthen consumer safety and public security.
The action was launched following reports of regulated and potentially dangerous substances being listed on platforms such as IndiaMART, Justdial, Sigma-Aldrich India, Dial4Trade and ExportersIndia. The substances under scrutiny include explosive precursors and hazardous chemicals such as ammonium nitrate, gun powder, picric acid and PETN.
The CCPA has issued notices to the concerned platforms seeking details related to seller licensing compliance, buyer verification systems, quantities sold, import information and regulatory approvals. The authority observed that several products listed online fall under restricted or regulated categories governed by public safety and hazardous substance laws.
The regulator has stressed that e-commerce platforms and intermediaries must exercise strict due diligence before allowing the sale or advertisement of such substances.
As part of its enforcement measures, the CCPA also held discussions with the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) and shared details of sellers operating on these platforms for further action under relevant laws.
Following the intervention, several online platforms have reportedly begun removing or restricting listings related to hazardous and explosive materials. The move is aimed at preventing unauthorized access to dangerous substances and ensuring safer digital marketplaces.