Indian authorities have imposed financial penalties on Meta, Amazon, Flipkart and Meesho for facilitating the sale of unauthorised walkie-talkie devices on their platforms, citing violations of the country’s telecommunications and wireless regulations. The action underscores the government’s tightening oversight of online marketplaces and social media-based commerce.

Walkie-Talkies Classified as Restricted Communication Equipment

Under Indian law, walkie-talkies operate on radio frequencies that are strictly regulated and require prior approval or licensing from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Officials said the devices sold online were often imported, uncertified, and capable of operating on restricted spectrum bands, posing potential risks to national security and emergency communication networks.

Platforms Accused of Weak Compliance Controls

Investigations revealed that listings for walkie-talkies were accessible across multiple platforms, including e-commerce marketplaces and social media-linked storefronts. Authorities noted that sellers frequently bypassed safeguards by mislabeling products or advertising them as toys or short-range communication devices, while platforms allegedly failed to conduct adequate checks.

Meta’s Role Through Social Commerce Tools

Meta’s penalty is linked to walkie-talkie sales facilitated through Facebook and Instagram commerce tools, where third-party sellers promoted and transacted restricted devices. Regulators said social media companies are equally responsible for monitoring illegal product listings when they enable commercial transactions.

Government Signals Tougher Enforcement Ahead

Officials stated that the fines are part of a broader enforcement drive to ensure platform accountability under India’s digital commerce and telecom compliance framework. Authorities warned that repeat violations could lead to higher penalties, seller bans, or temporary suspension of certain services.

Companies Respond, Pledge Cooperation

In separate statements, the companies said they are reviewing regulatory findings, have removed flagged listings, and are strengthening internal compliance systems. Some platforms emphasized that they rely on seller disclosures but acknowledged the need for more proactive monitoring mechanisms.

Why This Case Matters

The crackdown highlights India’s growing focus on spectrum security, consumer safety, and digital platform responsibility. As online retail expands into regulated product categories, companies face increasing pressure to align marketplace practices with national laws rather than relying solely on takedown-after-complaint models.