Consumer Online Foundation against deadline extension on e-commerce norms

Consumer Online Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation under Bejon Kumar Misra, on Wednesday expressed its deep concerns on the extension of deadline to seek comments on draft e-commerce rules in India citing consumer ramifications in the long run.

The government extended the deadline for suggestions and feedback on the proposed amendments to the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, till August 6 as opposed to July 6.

The ministry released the draft e-commerce rules on June 21, prohibiting "fraudulent" flash sales, as well as mis-selling of goods and services on e-commerce platforms. Other amendments of the draft rules include appointing a chief compliance officer or grievance redressal officer.

Commenting on the draft e-commerce deadline extension by the Government, Bejon Misra, Founder Trustee of Consumer Online Foundation said, "The draft to amend the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules 2020 is a step in the right direction to tighten the legal norms on the e-commerce platforms which were having a field day until recently, but the extension is setback to protect and strengthen the rights of consumers."