The Ministry of Consumer Affairs announced that 26 e-commerce platforms have submitted self-declarations confirming that their user interfaces are free from dark patterns, following the government’s guidelines on preventing manipulative design practices in digital commerce.
Major Marketplaces File Compliance Declarations
Platforms including Flipkart, Amazon, Zepto, Myntra, MakeMyTrip, BigBasket, Swiggy, Zomato and Meesho have completed internal or third-party audits and declared compliance. The ministry noted that these declarations reflect growing industry commitment to maintaining transparent, user-friendly interfaces during browsing, checkout and subscription processes.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) said the move indicates readiness among leading digital platforms to align with evolving consumer-protection norms. It has also asked other platforms to publicly publish their declarations and conduct regular interface audits.
Regulatory Scrutiny Rises Over Manipulative Design Patterns
The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of deceptive UX choices on digital platforms. Last month, the Department of Consumer Affairs initiated inquiries into Flipkart and Amazon after identifying issues such as hidden fees, extra charges on cash-on-delivery orders, and surprise add-ons during checkout practices that may influence user decisions and fall under identified dark-pattern categories.
Zepto also faced criticism after users highlighted a design that nudged customers toward higher delivery fees and additional charges like handling, rain and surge fees. CEO Aadit Palicha later acknowledged the issue and confirmed its removal.
A Push for Transparency and Self-Regulation
The ministry said the declarations are part of a broader transparency and self-regulation framework designed to promote ethical digital design. Authorities will continue evaluating UX practices that could potentially mislead or manipulate consumer choices, especially as e-commerce adoption widens across India.
Final Take
As the government intensifies its focus on consumer rights in digital commerce, voluntary disclosures from leading platforms signal a shift toward clearer, fair-er and more accountable online shopping experiences.
Keep building. Keep learning. Keep growing with StartupByDoc.