BIS Cracks Down on E-Commerce Platforms Selling Unsafe Non-Certified Products

Introduction

In a significant move to combat unsafe products on e-commerce platforms, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has taken strict action. With a recent raid on Amazon’s Lucknow warehouse and a series of seizures by Techvision International Pvt Ltd in Delhi, BIS has become a firm regulator of consumer safety online. This blog explores the severity of the issue, legal measures taken, examples from various platforms, and the importance of consumer education.

The Problem: Unsafe Non-Certified Products on E-Commerce Platforms

BIS is enforcing stricter standards for consumer products, including non-Certified ones sold on e-commerce platforms. This initiative aims to prevent potential safety hazards and protect consumers. Here’s how BIS has impacted these industries:

1. Lack of Standardization: Many e-commerce platforms sell “non-certified” products without proper technical specifications. This allows sellers to bypass regulatory oversight, potentially exposing consumers to dangerous or hazardous items.

2. Legal Penalties: Non-Certified Products can lead to hefty penalties if found unmarked or with incorrect CM/L ( manufacturer’s license number). Violations can result in fines of up to two lakh rupees or imprisonment for two years.

3. Misleading Standards: The mandatory BIS certification for these products is often overlooked, potentially leading to unsafe offerings on platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.

Specific Examples

• Amazon: In Lucknow, a raid resulted in the seizure of 215 toys and 24 hand blenders. These were non-Certified Products that failed independence tests.

• Flipkart: Another raid in Gurugram found 534 stainless steel bottles, 134 toys, and 41 speakers, all unmarked.

• Techvision International: Acts as an intermediary for Techvision, which purchased products from platforms like M/s Instakart to ensure compliance with BIS standards. seizures included electric water heaters, food mixers, and stoves.

The Role of the BIS Care App

To educate consumers, BIS has introduced the BIS Care app. This app offers crucial information on products requiring BIS certification, including verifying the ISI Mark and CM/L. It also allows users to report quality issues or complaints about certified products, fostering transparency.

Call to Action: Strengthen Safe E-Commerce

With these actions, BIS is addressing a growing crisis in consumer safety online. To protect future generations:

1. Stay Informed: Educate your children and friends on the importance of using BIS-certified products.

2. Choose Wisely: Avoid non-Certified Products from e-commerce platforms with known issues or unmarked items.

3. Monitor Care: Use the BIS Care app to ensure all purchases meet safety standards and comply with regulations.

Conclusion

BIS’s proactive measures highlight a broader trend of rising safety concerns on e-commerce platforms. By enforcing stricter standards, ensuring transparency through apps, and holding accountable sellers, BIS is contributing to safer, more regulated markets for consumers. As the legal landscape strengthens, it will be crucial to take these actions together to protect future generations.