CCPA fines Hogar Technologies Rs 1 lakh over misleading walkie-talkie listings

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) said on 25 October 2026 that it has imposed a penalty of Rs 1 lakh on Hogar Technologies and Innovations LLP for misleading advertisements and listings of walkie-talkies. According to the CCPA, the listings did not disclose the devices' operating frequencies or licensing requirements. The order was passed under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

What Happened

The CCPA said the listings on the company's website did not clearly disclose operating frequencies, licensing requirements and regulatory approvals, which could mislead buyers into believing the devices could be used legally without the required authorisation. Under 2018 rules, personal mobile radios working in the 446.0-446.2 MHz range are exempt from a licence, subject to conditions; devices outside that range face the relevant regulatory requirements.

The company submitted that it held a dealer licence and equipment type approvals, and that its website was for information and lead generation without online sales. The CCPA held that holding approvals does not remove the duty to give buyers accurate and complete information before purchase, and that a website without a payment gateway is still covered by the rules on misleading advertisements. It found the company in violation of the Act's provisions on misleading advertisements and unfair trade practices.

The CCPA said it found over 16,970 non-compliant listings and sent notices to 13 e-commerce entities. It has passed final orders against 12 entities with penalties totalling Rs 58 lakh, including Rs 10 lakh each on Amazon Seller Services, Flipkart Internet, Meesho, Meta Platforms and TradeIndia (Infocom Network), and Rs 1 lakh each on JioMart (Reliance Retail) and others.

According to the CCPA, Amazon and Flipkart have challenged their orders before the Karnataka High Court, and Meta and TradeIndia before the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, which directed TradeIndia to deposit the penalty. IndiaMART has approached the Delhi High Court over the proceedings, which are still before the CCPA.

What It Means

Buyers of walkie-talkies should expect listings to state the operating frequency and any licence needed, so they know whether they can use the device lawfully. The CCPA said such disclosures are required however the product is sold. Consumers who find a misleading listing can complain through the National Consumer Helpline (1915) or e-Daakhil.

Source: PIB press release