Overview

• Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said multiple complaints prompted a detailed investigation into platforms adding extra CoD charges.
• Authorities have classified add-on CoD fees as a dark pattern and warned that violations will invite strict action.
• Regulators are evaluating how prevalent the fees are and whether platforms clearly disclose them to shoppers.
• Consumers have flagged opaque charges on major e-commerce and quick-commerce apps, naming Flipkart, Amazon, Zomato, Swiggy and Zepto.
• A wider clampdown on unfair practices continues, with earlier self-audit directives and a recent CCPA fine of Rs 5 lakh on Drishti IAS for misleading ads.