Central Adoption Authority asks Amazon India to remove merchandise that mocks adoption in garb of sibling satire

NEW DELHI: Reacting to concerns of parents, Central Adoption Resource Authority has asked e-commerce platform Amazon India to remove all merchandise linked to the festival of "Raksha Bandhan" that in the garb of sibling satire has the potential of causing emotional distress to adopted children and their families.
It is learnt that in its letter on Saturday, CARA have also asked Amazon to verify the contents being sold by sellers on its platform so that such a thing does not happen in the future. While the festival of Rakhi is scheduled for Monday, the letter from CARA gains significance as it sets in place a precedent to deter sale of such merchandise in the future.
According to officials who confirmed that CARA has written a letter, it has been made clear to Amazon India that allowing merchandise that uses the emotional aspect as a commercial tool for profit making is derogatory and offensive to adopted children, their families and the very institution of adoption.
TOI had reported on Friday that in an open letter to CARA, Avinash Kumar, founder of civil society organisation, Families of Joy stated, " Raksha Bandhan, the festival celebrating the bond between brother and sister is round the corner and it is shocking to see several online retailers selling merchandise mocking adoption, in the garb of friendly satire between siblings, teasing the other one to be adopted." He also wrote an open letter to Amazon India.
Kumar quoted in his letter that "the merchandise includes mugs, cushion covers, T-Shirts, Rakhis etc. ostensibly teasing the sibling –“Tu Toh Adopted hai” – (however, you are adopted), “You are adopted, BUT we love you” – (as if adopted children do not deserve love), “Rakhi for the Adopted brother” – (Highlighting adoption)." He has also listed names of some of the e-commerce platforms selling these items.