After India's backlash, Amazon takes down products listing with Hindu symbols
#BoycottAmazon was one of the top trending topics on Twitter in India, with users sharing screenshots of Amazon listings of doormats and underwear emblazoned with insignia including the elephant god Ganesha and other symbols, which Hindus consider sacred.
A statement released by Amazon stated that they are taking down the products in question. "All sellers must follow our selling guidelines and those who do not will be subject to action including potential removal of their account," the statement said.
Several of the product listings on Amazon's websites are controlled by sellers and not directly by the company. But episodes such as this threaten to disrupt business and sour public sentiment in India for global firms such as Amazon.
In 2017 the Modi government threatened to revoke visas of Amazon's employees in the country if it did not stop the sale of doormats resembling India's tri-color flag on its Canadian website.
In 2019, the retail giant enraged Indian customers again after toilet seat covers and other items emblazoned with images of Hindu gods were spotted on its US website.
On both occasions, it took down the product listings.
Gaurav Goel, a spokesman for India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party tweeted on Tuesday said, "Dear Indians, if your religious feelings have been hurt, register a complaint with cyber police or with the local police station.''