On 19 October 2026, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) initiated regulatory action against seven online platforms over unauthorised listings and sales of hazardous explosive substances. The substances included ammonium nitrate, gunpowder, picric acid and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN). By that date, 3,940 sellers and listing entries had been delisted across the platforms.
Consumer protection framework
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 established the CCPA as a statutory authority under the Department of Consumer Affairs. The Authority can investigate violations of consumer rights, unfair trade practices and false or misleading advertisements. It can order the discontinuation of unfair practices and impose penalties for misleading advertisements. The CCPA treated the listings as misleading advertisements and unfair trade practices. It expects platforms to verify seller licences and buyer identities when dealing with regulated substances. The seven platforms under scrutiny were IndiaMART, TradeIndia, Dial4Trade, Justdial, Sigma-Aldrich India, ExportersIndia and Ibuychemikals.
Regulation of explosive substances
The Explosives Act, 1884 provides the legal framework for regulating explosives in India. The Explosives Rules, 2008 prescribe requirements relating to the manufacture, possession, use, sale, transport, import and export of explosives. Ammonium nitrate is also regulated under the Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012. Ammonium nitrate has legitimate industrial uses, including as a fertiliser and in explosives. PETN is a high explosive, while picric acid and gunpowder are also regulated hazardous substances. Their possession, sale and use are subject to applicable licensing and safety controls.
Enforcement and platform proceedings
Final penalty orders totalling ₹10 lakh were issued against Dial4Trade, and two separate penalties of ₹10 lakh each were issued against ExportersIndia. Dial4Trade’s appeal was dismissed, while ExportersIndia’s appeals remain pending. Investigations involving IndiaMART and Justdial are ongoing. IndiaMART furnished details of 3,092 sellers, including 2,700 associated with ammonium nitrate. Public reporting of suspected online sales of explosives can be made through the National Consumer Helpline at 1915.
Important Facts for Exams
- The CCPA is a statutory authority established under Section 10 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
- The Explosives Act, 1884 is the principal Indian law governing explosives.
- The Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012 regulate ammonium nitrate in India.
- The National Consumer Helpline can be reached by calling 1915.
The National Consumer Helpline is operated by the Department of Consumer Affairs for consumer grievances and information.
