On 13 May 2025, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) addressed a letter to Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce & Industry, expressing concern over the sale of Pakistani flags and merchandise on Indian e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart. The issue gains prominence amidst Operation Sindoor, a military campaign involving Indian armed forces against Pakistan. CAIT deemed the sale of such items during this sensitive time as a serious affront to national sentiment, disrespectful to the armed forces, and a potential threat to internal harmony and security. The organization argued that allowing such merchandise on Indian platforms reflects a disregard for national dignity and public emotion. The letter demanded immediate governmental intervention, including a ban on the sale of Pakistani-themed products, a full investigation into how these listings were approved, and the establishment of strict compliance measures. CAIT also called for punitive action against platforms that fail to respect national security concerns and urged the issuance of guidelines preventing similar occurrences. CAIT attached evidence to support its claims and framed the issue as one of national honor rather than commercial activity. The letter concluded with an appeal for urgent and firm action by the government to uphold national dignity during a time of military engagement.
CONFEDERATION OF ALL INDIA TRADERS
(An Apex Body of Trade Federations, Associations & Small Scale Sector of India)
Ref. No.: CAIT/25/22 13th May, 2025
Shri Piyush Goyal
Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Industry
Government of India
New Delhi
Subject: Immediate action needed: Sale of Pakistani flags and merchandise on E-commerce platforms amidst Operation Sindoor
Dear Shri Piyush Goyal Ji,
I write to express my deep concern over a matter that strikes at the very core of our national sentiment and sovereignty. It has come to light that Pakistani flags, logo-bearing mugs, and T-shirts are being openly sold on major e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart. This disturbing situation unfolds even as our valiant armed forces are actively engaged in Operation Sindoor — a mission of critical national importance against Pakistan.
At a time when our soldiers are displaying unmatched courage and sacrifice to safeguard our nation, the sale of items representing a hostile nation is not only insensitive but also entirely unacceptable. Such actions by e-commerce platforms reflect a blatant disregard for the dignity of our armed forces, the sovereignty of India, and the emotions of every patriotic Indian citizen.
This is not merely an oversight. It is a grave matter that risks undermining national unity and poses a potential threat to our internal harmony and security.
In light of the above, I urge your immediate attention and request the following actions:
1. An immediate ban on the sale of Pakistani flags, logos, and all related merchandise across all e-commerce platforms operating in India.
2. A thorough investigation into how such products were listed and permitted for sale.
3. Implementation of strict compliance mechanisms to ensure such incidents do not recur, including penal action or suspension of platforms failing to adhere to national sensitivities.
4. Issuance of clear directives to all e-commerce platforms to prohibit the sale of any products that may compromise national security or insult public sentiment.
The attached evidence highlights the seriousness and insensitivity of this issue. This is a matter of national honor, not commercial freedom.
I trust that you will act with the urgency and firmness this matter demands and take decisive steps to safeguard the pride of our armed forces and the dignity of our nation.
With highest regards,
Yours truly
B. C. Bhartia
National President
Contact Cell : 9422101317
“Vyapar Bhawan”
