An FIR has been registered against e-commerce giant Amazon for allegedly hurting “Hindu sentiments” after rugs and toilet seat covers with pictures of Hindu gods were available for sale on its US website.
A complaint was made at Noida’s Sector 58 police station for allegedly promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion.
An online campaign ‘#BoycottAmazon’ had been initiated earlier on Thursday, 16 May on Twitter as multiple users showcased their anger accusing the online retail company of hurting the sentiments of Hindus.
“The foreign-based company regularly puts up products on its website which hurts the sentiments of Hindus. This may lead to communal tension in our country anytime. Hence, it’s a request to take strict action against the company so that such incidents are not repeated and Hindus can live with their pride and dignity peacefully.”Vikash Mishra, complainant, to PTI.
Circle Officer Piyush Kumar Singh said the FIR has been registered under Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code — promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony. He also said that the matter is being probed.
Backlash Against Amazon on Social Media
Amazon received flak on social media with users asking for its boycott.
Multiple users took to Twitter to question the selling of toilet seat covers, rugs and floor mats with the pictures of Hindu Gods.
An Amazon spokesperson had said that all sellers must follow the company's selling guidelines and those who do not comply will be subject to action, including potential removal of their account, PTI reported.
"The products in question are being removed from our store," the spokesperson added.
Shiromani Akali Dal’s Manjinder Singh Sirsa also called out Amazon for being ‘insensitive to the religious faith of Indians’.
People Call Amazon Out With #BoycottAmazon
Many started a movement to sign a petition to make Amazon stop selling rugs, toilet covers and floor mats with Hindu Gods designed on them.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had received several complaints of Amazon selling flip-flops with Mahatma Gandhi's image in 2017. There were also reports of Amazon Canada selling doormats on its platform depicting the Indian flag.
(With inputs from PTI)
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