CAIT Seeks Ban on Sale of Pakistani Flags, Merchandise on E-Commerce Platforms

 

 

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has called for an urgent and nationwide ban on the sale of Pakistani flags and related merchandise through e-commerce platforms operating in India. This strong appeal follows the recent discovery of Pakistani flags and T-shirts bearing the crescent-and-star symbol being sold online, particularly on Amazon India, with prices ranging between ₹300 and ₹3,000.

In a formal letter addressed to Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, CAIT emphasized that such listings are not only insensitive but also detrimental to national sentiment, especially amid the continuing border tensions between India and Pakistan. The trader body stated that the online availability of Pakistani merchandise undermines national interests and has deeply hurt the feelings of Indian citizens.

The demand comes amid growing scrutiny of e-commerce practices and rising calls for tighter regulatory control over online marketplaces. CAIT, a prominent voice for India's trader community, has consistently raised concerns about foreign content and products that do not align with the country's values or security priorities.

In a letter addressed to Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, BC Bhartia, President, CAIT highlighted that the availability of such items coincides with India's ongoing military operation, Operation Sindoor, against Pakistan. Calling the listings, "not merely an oversight," CAIT has demanded immediate remedial measures.

Citing the need to protect national pride and unity, CAIT urged the government to implement a complete ban on the online sale of foreign flags, particularly those of hostile nations like Pakistan, across all e-commerce and digital retail platforms. The organization also pressed for action against platforms violating such norms, demanding stricter content screening and accountability mechanisms.

This is not the first time CAIT has taken a stand against cross-border online sales. The organization has previously led protests against e-commerce giants for their alleged disregard of Indian trade policies and cultural sensitivities. The current demand aligns with the broader campaign to ban Pakistani products in India and restrict the circulation of any materials perceived as promoting or endorsing ties with the neighboring country.

As the CAIT e-commerce protest gains traction, the government is expected to evaluate policy-level interventions to address concerns about foreign merchandise, particularly those with politically or emotionally sensitive symbolism. The call for a ban on foreign flags in India, especially Pakistani products and symbols, could lead to tighter regulations across online platforms and reinforce the government's commitment to safeguarding national interests in the digital age.