Government tightened grip on e-commerce companies, more charge charged on cash on delivery, accused of exploitation

Investigation of e-commerce companies started

The Department of Consumer Affairs has taken cognizance of complaints of charging additional fees on Cash on delivery (COD) order by e-commerce platforms. The department termed this practice as a dark pattern and said that it is an attempt to mislead and exploit consumers. Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has given information about this by posting on his social media X on Friday.

According to the complaints received, many consumers have alleged that if they choose a cash-on-delivery option while shopping online, then companies are charging extra money from them. The department has started a comprehensive investigation, calling it a violation of consumer rights. Minister Pralhad Joshi said that the Department of Consumer Affairs have received complaints that ecommerce platforms are taking more charge on cash on delivery. This is a dark pattern to mislead consumers. A detailed investigation has been started and strict action will be taken against those who break the rules.

Strict action will be taken if found guilty

According to sources, clarification will be sought from the concerned e-commerce companies and strict action will be taken against them if found guilty. The department says that it is mandatory to maintain transparency and fair behavior in India’s rapidly growing e-commerce sector. Experts believe that in view of the increasing number of customers in the online market, consumers can affect the trust with such complaints.

Responsible will be fixed

At the same time, the government has indicated that any e-platform that exploits consumers will not be spared. Consumer rights activists have welcomed the move and said that this is an important step towards making the e-commerce sector more transparent and accountable.

Flipkart’s answer came

At the same time, the answer has come from Flipkart in this matter. Flipkart Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Rajneesh Kumar said that the company is committed to meet every consumer to meet transparency and trust. It is clear from the recent self-audit that we are playing the role of Digital Market Place responsible.

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