People across the country started to uninstall Amazon application from their smartphones after the e-commerce giant Amazon was seen selling rugs, shoes and seat covers with images of Hindu gods. Indian citizens got angry on Amazon and vent out their frustration on their respective social media handles, demanding to boycott Amazon.
BoycottAmazon started trending on Twitter. On May 17, Noida Police registered a case against the e-commerce giant for allegedly hurting ‘religious sentiments’.
An online campaign ‘Boycott Amazon’ was started by several social media users over the same issue.
An Amazon spokesperson was quoted saying that all the sellers must obey the company’s selling guidelines and those who don’t follow will be subjected to action, including removal of their account.
“The products in question are being removed from our store,” the spokesperson added.
The complaint was lodged at the Sector 58 police station for allegedly triggering hostility between different groups on grounds of religion, the police added.
“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,” complainant Vikas Mishra said.
The complaint has now been registered under section 153A of the Indian Penal Code, a Noida police official stated. “The matter is being probed,” he added.