Amazon Fined for Misleading Sale of Sweets as Ram Mandir Prasad

Amazon India has been ordered to pay Rs 1 lakh as penalty for unauthorized sale of sweets falsely marketed as prasad from the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, according to regulatory findings. The investigation revealed that four products listed on the platform were sold under misleading descriptions, capitalizing on the religious significance and popularity of the temple following its recent consecration.

The disputed listings generated gross merchandise sales of Rs 25,26,309, with actual revenue from the four products reaching Rs 39,802.29. Amazon's service fee earnings from these transactions amounted to Rs 15,165.90. The misrepresentation constituted a violation of consumer protection and e-commerce regulations, which prohibit deceptive labeling and false product descriptions.

The penalty underscores regulatory scrutiny of misleading product claims on major e-commerce platforms in India. Authorities have increasingly focused on preventing sellers from exploiting cultural and religious sentiments through fraudulent product listings. The case highlights the need for stricter verification mechanisms and seller accountability in online marketplaces.

Amazon has not issued a public statement regarding the penalty. The incident comes amid growing concerns about quality control and vendor compliance on leading e-commerce platforms operating in the Indian market.