Sub-standard products? New rules to fix onus on e-commerce platforms

All platforms must have a clear policy, prominently displayed, on delivery, return, exchange and refund

In due course, if you get a sub-standard product through any e-commerce platform, both the manufacturer and the platform could be held guilty.

Under new e-commerce rules being framed by the government, ‘electronic service providers’ would be clearly defined, so that such platforms don’t escape responsibility. Also, that e-commerce platforms mandatorily disclose the terms and conditions they have entered into with the sellers.

Officials said the new rules, being prepared by the consumer affairs department, will be incorporated in the revised consumer protection law which is awaiting Parliament approval, as an enabling provision.

“The new rules would be a complete