In response to BJP MP Gangasandra Siddappa Basavaraj's question on "a recent report released by the US Trade Representative (USTR) include flea markets in New Delhi and Mumbai and also an e-commerce platform operating in India for selling fake goods, involving counter-feiting and piracy," the government responded in parliament that it had "India is under no obligation to take action based on reports being generated by independent sovereigns," and that the USTR's report was "specific to addressing concerns of American consumers". "However, Central Government has been taking active steps to control the menace of counterfeiting and piracy," the response by the government was quick to add. "Several initiatives to strengthen enforcement agencies through regular training and sensitization programs have been undertaken by the Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM) with Police, Customs and Judiciary." The USTR report Basavaraj mentioned named Snapdeal as a seller of such counterfeit products; the company accused the USTR of blurring the distinction between online marketplaces and sellers. Robert Lighthizer was the US Trade Representative at the time of the report's publication; US President Joe Biden has nominated attorney Katherine Tai as the trade representative under his administration. Full question and answer Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:- (a) whether a recent report released by the US Trade Representative (USTR) include flea markets in New Delhi and Mumbai and also an e-commerce platform operating in India for selling fake goods, involving counter-feiting and piracy and if so,…
