Ayodhya: In a recent development, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued a notice to Amazon Seller Services Private Ltd, responding to a complaint filed by a traders’ body. The complaint alleges that various food companies are marketing snacks, including ladoos, online as “Shri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad,” constituting fraudulent practices.
Allegations and Examination
Authorities examined samples of these snack brands and found the use of the label ‘prasad’ (a consecrated offering to the deity) from the Ram temple in Ayodhya to be “misleading.” The CCPA contends that such practices violate the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act 2019, specifically those related to misleading claims and unfair trade practices.
Action Taken by CCPA
The CCPA has taken swift action and issued a notice to Amazon Seller Services Private Ltd, demanding a response within a week. While no penalties have been imposed at this stage, the e-commerce giant is required to explain the marketing and sale of these products.
Context of Ayodhya Inauguration Ceremony
This development coincides with Ayodhya’s preparations for the inauguration ceremony of the Ram temple scheduled for January 22, to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The CCPA’s intervention is significant as Ayodhya anticipates a surge in economic activity with millions of devotees expected to visit the temple town.
Targeted Food Products
The CCPA has specifically targeted four food products, three of which prominently feature the words ‘Shri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad.’ Even a snack brand that avoids using these specific words but promotes its ladoos as a ‘memorable offering to the deity in Ayodhya’ is potentially liable for action, according to a senior official.
Consumer Protection Chief’s Statement
Rohit Kumar Singh, Chief Commissioner of CCPA and Union Secretary of Consumer Affairs, emphasized that misleading headings are unacceptable, as many consumers may not read the fine print. He clarified that, as of now, no penalties have been imposed on Amazon; the company has been summoned to clarify its position.
Trader Body’s Complaint
The CCPA’s action follows a written complaint by the Confederation of All India Traders, represented by Praveen Khandelwal. The complaint was addressed to Union Minister of Consumer Affairs Piyush Goyal, accusing Amazon of engaging in “Unscrupulous Trade Practices in the name of Lord Ram.”
Conclusion: The controversy surrounding the sale of snacks marketed as “Ram Temple Prasad” on Amazon underscores the sensitivity of religious sentiments and ethical considerations in product marketing. The outcome of the CCPA’s inquiry will be closely watched as it unfolds against the backdrop of Ayodhya’s significant cultural and religious events.
Also Read – Ayodhya Ram Mandir: How the World’s Largest Ram Temple Construction Movement Became Successful