Terms & Policies
Last updated: 4th Apr 2026
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12 sectionsPrivacy Policy for Local Baazaar
Effective Date:10th feb 2026
Last Updated:4th Apr 2026
Local Baazaar ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal data when you use our platform (the "App" or "Website") as a Shopkeeper or a User.
By using Local Baazaar, you consent to the data practices described in this policy.
1. What Data We Collect (Data Inventory)
We practice "Data Minimization," meaning we only collect what is strictly necessary to run our service.
A. From Shopkeepers (Vendors)
To verify your business and enable payouts, we collect:
Identity Data: Shop Name, Owner Name, Business Registration Number, Aadhar card (masked) PAN, and GSTIN.
Location: geolocation coordinates for shop location.
Contact Data: Mobile Number (verified via OTP), Email Address, Shop Address, shop location and photos.
Compliance Documents: FSSAI License (for food businesses), Trade License, and Shop Photos (Signboard & Interior) for verification.
Financial Data: Bank Account Number and IFSC Code (strictly for settling payouts).
B. From Users (Customers)
To process and deliver your orders, we collect:
Identity: Name and Mobile Number and photo identification.
Location: Geolocation coordinates (to match you with nearby shops).
Order History: Details of items purchased and shops visited.
2. How We Use Your Data (Purpose)
We process your data only for "Lawful Purposes" as defined under the DPDP Act:
Service Delivery: To connect Users with Shopkeepers and fulfill orders.
Verification: To validate that Shopkeepers are legitimate businesses (preventing fraud).
Communication: To send order updates, OTPs for login, and important policy changes and promotions.
Legal Compliance: To maintain transaction records for tax authorities (GST/Income Tax).
3. Data Sharing & Third Parties
We do not sell your personal data. However, we share necessary data with "Data Processors" who help us run the business:
Cloud Hosting to securely store your data.
Maps to pinpoint shop and delivery locations.
Payments To process secure payments.
SMS/OTP To send verification codes and alerts.
4. Your Rights (The "Data Principal")
Under the DPDP Act, you have the following rights over your data:
Right to Access: You can ask for a summary of all personal data we hold about you.
Right to Correction: You can request to update incorrect or incomplete data (e.g., a new address or phone number).
Right to Erasure (The "Right to be Forgotten"): You can ask us to delete your account.
Right to Grievance Redressal: If you have a complaint, you have the right to a timely response.
Right to Nominate: You may nominate an individual to exercise your rights in the event of death or incapacity.
To exercise any of these rights, email us at manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com.
5. Data Security & Retention
Security: We use industry-standard encryption (SSL/TLS) for data in transit. Access to personal data is restricted to authorized employees only.
Active Accounts: Data is kept as long as you use the service.
Deleted Accounts: Personal identifiers are removed immediately. Transaction logs are archived securely for 2 years for legal/tax compliance, after which they are permanently deleted.
6. Children's Privacy
Local Baazaar is not intended for users under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect data from minors. If we discover a minor has created an account, we will delete it immediately.
7. Contact Our Grievance Officer
If you have concerns about your privacy or wish to report a breach, please contact our designated Grievance Officer:
Name: Subrahmanyam
Designation: Grievance Officer
Email: manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com
Address: Surisetti complex Isakathota Visakhapatnam
We will acknowledge your complaint within 24-48 hours and aim to resolve it within 30 days.
Cookie Policy for Local Baazaar.
Last Updated:4th Apr 2026
At Local Baazaar, we believe in being clear about how we use your data. This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, how we use them, and your choices regarding them.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They are not harmful programs or viruses. They help the website "remember" you-like keeping you logged in or remembering what is in your cart-so you have a better experience.
2. How We Use Cookies
We use cookies for the following purposes:
A. Essential Cookies (Strictly Necessary)
These are required for the website and app to work. Without them, you cannot use basic features.
Authentication: To keep you logged in as you navigate between pages.
Security: To detect unusual activity and prevent fraudulent logins.
Session Management: To remember your session so you don't have to log in every time you open the app.
B. Functional Cookies
These help us remember your preferences to make the site easier to use.
Location: Remembering your selected city or pin code so we show you relevant local shops.
Language: Remembering if you prefer English or a local language interface.
C. Analytics & Performance Cookies
These help us understand how people use Local Baazaar so we can improve it.
Traffic: We use analytical tools to see which pages are most popular and where users get stuck.
Errors: To track broken links or app crashes.
D. Advertising & Marketing Cookies
Campaigns: If we run ads, these cookies help us see if you clicked on an ad to reach us.
Re-targeting: We may use these to show you relevant offers from Local Baazaar on other websites.
3. Third-Party Cookies
Some features on our platform are provided by third parties who may also place cookies on your device. We do not control these cookies.
Google Maps: Used for location services and map rendering.
Payment Gateways: Used to securely process your payments.
Social Media: If you use "Login with Google" or "Login with Facebook," those platforms may use their own cookies and others.
4. Your Choices Managing Cookies
You have the right to choose whether to accept cookies.
Browser Settings: Most web browsers allow you to block or delete cookies through their "Settings" or "Privacy" menus.
Mobile Device: On your phone, you can reset your "Advertising ID" or limit tracking in your device settings under "Privacy" on iOS or Android.
5. Contact Us
If you have any questions about our use of cookies, please contact our Grievance Officer:
Email:manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com
Address:Surisetti complex Isakathota Visakhapatnam
Refund & Cancellation Policy for Local Baazaar
Last Updated:4th Apr 2026
At Local Baazaar, we strive to ensure every order is delivered to your satisfaction. However, we understand that things can go wrong. This policy outlines when and how you can cancel an order or request a refund.
1. Cancellation Policy
A. Customer-Initiated Cancellations
Before Order Acceptance: You can cancel your order for a full refund at any time before the Shopkeeper accepts the order.
After Order Acceptance: Once the Shopkeeper has accepted your order, it cannot be cancelled.
Refuse to accept product: If you refuse to accept a valid Pickup without a genuine reason, no refund will be issued.
B. Shopkeeper/Platform Cancellations
We reserve the right to cancel your order in the following cases:
The Shopkeeper is unable to fulfill the order due to stock unavailability.
Return & Refund Policy
Since we connect you with local shops, returns depend on the type of product purchased.
Category A: Perishables (Food, Vegetables, Dairy, Flowers)
No Returns: Due to the nature of these items, we do not accept returns once delivered.
Refund Eligibility: You are eligible for a refund only if:
1. The item is spoiled/rotten at the time of pick-up.
2. The wrong item was packed (only when the item was returned).
3. Items are missing from your order. (Proper proof need to submit)
Proof Required: You must provide a clear photo of the issue within 30 minutes of pickup via the App.
Category B: Non-Perishables (Packaged Goods, Electronics, Utensils)
Return Window: You may request a return within 12 hrs of Pickup (only if the item has warranty or guarantee and all the warranty or guarantee terms and conditions will apply according to the product manufacturer as well as shop keeper terms.
Condition: The item must be unused, sealed, and in its original packaging.
Process: The item has to be self return to the shopkeeper or vendor address. Once the Shopkeeper verifies the condition, a refund will be initiated.
3. Refund Timeline & Method
All Refunds are processed according to the shopkeeper terms and conditions Contact your shopkeeper where you have purchased the items.
Packing Policy (For Shopkeepers/Vendors)
Objective: To ensure all items reach the customer in a safe, hygienic, and undamaged condition.
Responsibility: The Shopkeeper is solely responsible for the quality and security of the packaging.
A. General Packaging Standards
Tamper-Proofing: All packages must be sealed securely.
Food Items: Must use tamper-evident tape or stickers so the customer knows if the pack was opened.
Retail Items: Bags must be knotted, stapled, or taped shut.
Labeling: Every package must have the Order ID clearly written or printed on the outside.
Privacy Note: Do not write the customer's full phone number or address on the outer package to protect their privacy. Use the Order ID only.
Hygiene: Packaging materials must be clean, dry, and free from dust or odors. Recycled newspapers should not touch food directly.
Category-Specific Guidelines Vendors:
Category Requirement
Hot Food: Use ventilation-friendly containers to prevent sogginess. Ensure lids are tight to prevent spilling.
Liquids (Gravies/Drinks): Double-layering is mandatory. Use a spill-proof container and wrap it in a plastic/cling film layer before placing it in the bag.
Fragile Items (Glass/Eggs): Must be wrapped in bubble wrap, paper, or cardboard cushioning. Mark the bag as "Fragile."
Frozen/Cold Items: Pack separately from hot items to maintain temperature.
C. Penalties for Poor Packing
Spillage/Damage: If a refund is issued to the customer due to "Damaged Item" or "Spill," the cost will be deducted from the Shopkeeper's payout.
Missing Items: If a customer reports missing items due to an unsealed bag, the Shopkeeper is liable.
2. Pickup & Handoff Policy
Objective: To streamline the transfer of goods from the Shop to the Customer and minimize wait times not more than 2-5 mins.
A strict protocol for the transfer of custody from Shopkeeper to Customer pickup.
A. Shopkeeper Responsibilities
"Mark Ready" Protocol:
Only tap "Order Ready" on the App when the item is fully packed and sealed. make sure that bills, warranty cards or accessories has been packed properly. Always maintain transparent packing covers to pack the Items.
Handover Verification:
The Shopkeeper must verify the Order ID and/or OTP with the customer before handing over the package.
The "Open-Check" Handoff:
If the packing is Transparent: Show the customer the items through the packaging.
If the packing is Opaque: Show the customer the before Pre-Seal.
B. Customer Responsibilities (Users)
Visual Check:
Customers must check for visible damage, leakage, or broken seals before accepting the package.
Once picked up, the liability for external damage shifts to the Customer.
Not pick up: If the customer does not pick up the order within 2 hrs of it being marked ready, the Shopkeeper may dispose of perishable items no refund to user. For non perishable items packing charges has to be paid by the customer.
Timeliness:
Customers must reach the shop within the "Estimated Arrival Time."
Pickup hold time: Item will be hold for only 2 hrs from the order accepted. Packing charges will be added after 2 hrs of time.
Partners must not park in "No Parking" zones or disrupt the shop's entrance.
C. Customer Self-Pickup
OTP Verification: The Shopkeeper must ask for the Pickup OTP from the customer before handing over the goods.
No Extra Charge: The Shopkeeper must not ask for any extra delivery or packing fees over the counter.
Wait Time: If the customer does not pick up the order within 2 hrs of it being marked ready, the Shopkeeper may dispose of perishable items no refund to user. For non perishable items packing charges has to be paid by the customer.
Visual Inspection for customers:
Check for Leakage/Stains: If the bag is wet or stained, REJECT the pickup.
Check for Seal Integrity: If the tape is peeling or the bag is torn, REJECT the pickup.
The "Shake Test": Gently lift the bag to ensure items are secure and not rattling loosely (especially for glass/eggs).
Liability Shift: Once the customer accepts the package, with otp customer accept liability for any external damage (crushing, dropping, spilling) that happens during transit.
Open Inspection: The Shopkeeper should encourage the customer to check the items other than at the counter. Once the customer leaves the shop premises, "Missing Item" claims will not be entertained.
Brand Name Usage & Intellectual Property (IP) Policy
Objective: To protect the "Local Baazaar" brand and ensure Shopkeepers respect the intellectual property rights of others.
A. Use of "Local Baazaar" Brand
Authorization: Shopkeepers and Partners may display the "Local Baazaar" logo (e.g., "Available on Local Baazaar" stickers) only with our written permission or using the official marketing kit provided by us.
No Misrepresentation: You may not use our logo, name, or mascot in a way that suggests you are Local Baazaar or an employee of Local Baazaar. You are an independent third-party seller.
B. Selling Branded Products (For Shopkeepers)
Authorized Reselling: If you list branded products (e.g., *Samsung, Nike, Amul), you must have the legal right or authorization to resell them.
Counterfeit Zero-Tolerance:
Strict Ban: The sale of fake, "first copy," or unauthorized replicas is strictly prohibited.
Liability: The Shopkeeper assumes full legal liability for any trademark infringement claims arising from their listings.
Product Warranty Policy
Objective: To clarify that Local Baazaar is an intermediary application and not the manufacturer.
A. Manufacturer Warranty (Electronics, Appliances, Packaged Goods)
Scope: Warranty claims for branded items (e.g., a mixer grinder, mobile phone, or packaged food) are governed solely by the Manufacturer's Warranty Terms.
Our Role: Local Baazaar is not responsible for servicing or repairing these items.
Customer Action: In case of a defect, the Customer must visit the brand's authorized service center with the Invoice provided by the Shopkeeper.
Invoice Requirement: Shopkeepers must provide a valid, GST-compliant invoice with every order to ensure the warranty is valid.
B. Seller Warranty (Unbranded/Local Goods)
Scope: For unbranded items (e.g., locally made furniture, clothes, or loose groceries), any warranty is at the sole discretion of the Shopkeeper.
Disclosure: Shopkeepers must clearly state warranty terms (e.g., "6 Month Stitching Warranty") in the product description. If none is stated, the item is sold "As Is."
3. Service Guarantee (The "Local Baazaar Promise")
Objective: To define exactly what the Platform guarantees to the Customer.
A. What We DO Guarantee
Payment Security:
We guarantee that your payment data is encrypted and secure. If a transaction fails but money is deducted, we guarantee a refund within 72 working hours.
B. What We DO NOT Guarantee (Disclaimers)
Taste & Preference: We do not guarantee that food will suit your personal taste preferences (e.g., "Too spicy" or "Not sweet enough").
Appearance Variations: Actual products may differ slightly from the images shown on the App due to screen resolution or packaging updates by the manufacturer.
Third-Party Actions: We are not liable for the behavior of shop keepers and other third-party contractors beyond facilitating a refund for service failure.
Dispute Resolution & Grievance Policy
Effective Date:10th feb 2026
At Local Baazaar, we are committed to resolving customer concerns promptly and fairly. This policy outlines the structured mechanism for handling complaints regarding orders, payments, services, or content on our platform how ever, as we are only supporting platform customer need to contact directly to the vendor or shopkeeper. Shopkeeper should resolve customer issues.
all customers should follow shopkeeper or vendor guideline (for better understanding customer should ask thoroughly about how customer service works with the vendor).
1. Level 1.1: Customer Support (First Point of Contact)
For immediate issues related to orders, Pick up delays, missing items, or refunds, users should first contact Direct regarding product associated with the shop keeper.
2. Level 1.2: platform, subscription, and payemet (only paid to local Baazaar) will be address with in 24 to 48 hrs of time.
Email: manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com
Response Time: We aim to respond to all Level 1.1 queries within the vendor time frame.
Response Time: We aim to respond to all Level 1.2 queries within the 24-48hrs.
2. Level 2: Grievance Officer
If your issue related to Level 1.2 is not resolved by Customer Support within the specified timeline, or if it relates to sensitive matters (e.g., privacy, data breaches, inappropriate content,), you may escalate it to our appointed Grievance Officer.
In accordance with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and Rules made thereunder, the contact details of the Grievance Officer are:
Name: Raja
Designation: Grievance Officer
Email: manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com
Address: Surisetti complex Isakathota Visakhapatnam
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM IST
Timeline for Grievance Redressal:
Acknowledgment: Within 48 hours of receiving the complaint.
Resolution: Within 1 month (30 working days) from the date of receipt.
3. Level 3: Dispute Resolution & Arbitration only for level 1.2
If the grievance remains unresolved after Level 2, the dispute shall be settled via the following legal process:
Amicable Settlement: The parties (User and Local Baazaar) shall first attempt to resolve the dispute amicably through mutual discussion within 30 days.
Arbitration: If amicable settlement fails, the dispute shall be referred to a sole arbitrator appointed by Local Baazaar. The arbitration proceedings shall be conducted in English.
Seat of Arbitration: The venue for arbitration shall be Visakhapatnam Andhra Pradesh
Governing Law: This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of India.
4. Jurisdiction
Any legal suit, action, or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Policy or your use of the Platform shall be instituted exclusively in the courts of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
5. Reporting Prohibited Content
If you find any content on Local Baazaar that violates our policies or Indian Law (e.g., copyright infringement, defamatory content, sale of illegal goods), please notify us immediately.
Report Content Email: manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com
Required Details:
Description of the violation.
Screenshot or URL of the listing.
Your contact details.
We will review and take down infringing content within 24-48 hours of receiving a valid court order or notification from a government agency.
6. Nodal Contact Person (For Law Enforcement)
Name:raja
Email: manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com
Designation: Nodal Officer
Customer Service & Vendor Responsibility Policy
Effective Date:10 feb 2026
Applicability: All Merchants, Shopkeepers, and who ever listed and/or registered on Local Baazaar platform.
Core Principle: The "Marketplace" Model
Local Baazaar acts solely as a technology provider and digital marketplace. We provide the application platform for Users to discover products and for Shopkeepers to sell them.
We DO NOT own, manufacture, cook, stock, or sell the products listed.
We ARE NOT a party to the sales contract between the Buyer and the Seller.
Therefore, the Shopkeeper (Vendor) is the primary owner of the customer relationship regarding the product.
2. Vendor Responsibilities (First Point of Contact)
As the seller of record, the Shopkeeper agrees to be the First Point of Contact for all product-related inquiries and complaints.
A. Customer Service Obligations
The Shopkeeper is responsible for handling the following customer interactions directly via the Vendor App or Phone
The Shopkeeper is responsible for sharing the customer care phone number to the customer for direct interactions and to local Baazaar to assist the customer.
Pre-Sales Queries: Answering questions about ingredients, customization, items weights, specifications, warranty and guarantee and others related and relevant information or product availability.
Order Status: Updating the status accurately (e.g., "Accepted," "Cooking," "Ready").
Product Complaints: Handling issues regarding taste, portion size, freshness, or missing items.
B. Product Liability
The Shopkeeper assumes 100% liability for:
Quality & Safety: Ensuring food is fresh, hygienic, and free from contaminants specifications, warranty and guarantee and others related and relevant information or product availability for all domains.
Accuracy: Ensuring the delivered item matches the image and description listed on the App.
Legal Compliance: Possessing valid FSSAI licenses and adhering to all local health regulations.
3. Local Baazaar Responsibilities (The Platform)
Local Baazaar is responsible for the technology and the transaction flow, but not the item itself.
A. Our Role
Listing Service: We ensure your shop and products are visible to nearby customers.
Payment Processing: We securely collect payments from the customer and transfer the settlement to the Shopkeeper (minus agreed fees) only for perishable items and/or selected items.
Technical Support: We handle issues related to the App crashing, login failures, or payment glitches.
B. When We Step In (Escalation)
Local Baazaar will intervene only if:
The Shopkeeper is unresponsive to the Customer for more than 24 hrs
There is a dispute regarding the financial transaction (e.g., Money deducted but order not placed).
The Shopkeeper violates our "Code of Conduct" (abusive behavior).
Financial Policy: Subscription & Commission
To use the Local Baazaar platform, Shopkeepers agree to the following financial terms:
Subscription Fees:
Definition: A recurring fee (Monthly/Quarterly/Yearly) paid by the Shopkeeper to keep their store active on the Platform.
Policy:
Subscription fees are paid in advance.
Non-Refundable: Once paid, the subscription fee is non-refundable, even if the Shopkeeper chooses to close their shop early.
Renewal: Failure to renew the subscription will result in the shop being "Hidden" from search results immediately upon expiry.
B. Commission (Per Order)
Definition: A percentage of the "Order Value" charged by Local Baazaar for facilitating the sale.
Deduction: This amount is automatically deducted at the source before the final settlement is transferred to the Shopkeeper's bank account.
Changes: Local Baazaar reserves the right to modify commission rates with a 15-day notice via email or App notification.
5. Pickup & Handover Policy
Efficient handover is the Shopkeeper's responsibility to ensure the "Local Baazaar" delivery promise is met.
A. The "Ready to Pick" Rule.
Marking Ready: The Shopkeeper must mark the order as "Ready" only when the food or items are packed with relevant with complete accessories and sealed in a transparent package.
Waiting Penalty: If a Customer arrives and has to wait more than 5 minutes because the Item or food was not actually ready, Local Baazaar reserves the right to charge a Waiting Fee to the Shopkeeper.
B. Handover Protocol
Verification: The Shopkeeper acts as the gatekeeper. You must verify the Order ID and ask the driver for the Pickup OTP.
Review: Before handing over, the Shopkeeper must ensure:
Packed items
Food or items are packed with relevant with complete accessories and sealed in a transparent package (transparent package is mandatory only for relevant items). Transparent package is not necessary for prepacked items directly for manufacturer, but any how relevant proper check is mandatory like seal, accessories warranty card etc. before picking up.
Hot and Cold items are separated.
The correct receipt is stapled to the bag.
Post-Handover: Once the OTP is entered and the customer leaves the shop premises, the custody (and liability for transit damage) shifts to the customer.
4. Cancellation & Refund Disputes
How we handle money when things go wrong:
Vendor Fault (Missing Item/Bad Quality) Quality:
Cost is borne by the Shopkeeper.
Local Baazaar will refund the customer and deduct the amount from the Shopkeeper's next payout.
Customer Fault damage on customer transportation:
No refund is issued to the customer.
The Shopkeeper receives full payout.
Reference Guide: What Constitutes "Bad Quality"
(For use in Cancellation & Refund Disputes)
A "Bad Quality" claim is valid and chargeable to the Vendor ONLY if it falls under one of the following specific categories. Subjective complaints (e.g., "I didn't like the taste") are not considered Vendor Fault.
A. Food & Perishables (Restaurants)
Hygiene & Safety Violations:
Foreign Objects: Presence of hair, insects, staples, plastic, or stones in the food.
Stale/Spoiled: Food that emits a foul odor, has visible mold, or is sour/fermented (verified by photo or immediate return).
Undercooked/Raw: Meat or vegetables that are raw or dangerous to consume (relevant proof should be uploaded by the customer).
Preparation Errors:
Burnt/Overcooked: Food that is charred or inedible due to overcooking.
Wrong Ingredients: Using non-veg ingredients in a veg dish (Severe Violation) or ignoring specific medical allergens flagged by the user (e.g., "No Peanuts").
Packaging Failures (Vendor Side):
Spillage due to Loose Lids: If the lid was not secured properly before handing it to the driver.
Sogginess: Hot fried items packed in airtight plastic without ventilation, causing them to become mushy.
B. Grocery & Retail Items
Expiry & Freshness:
Expired Goods: Delivering a product past its "Use By" or "Best Before" date or expiry date.
Rotten Produce: Fruits/Vegetables that are squashed, oozing, or black inside.
Physical Damage:
Broken Seals: Items where the safety seal is broken or tampered with.
Leaking Containers: Oil, milk, or cleaner bottles that are leaking due to loose caps.
Discrepancy:
Weight Mismatch: Customer ordered 1kg but received 500g (verified by photo on weighing scale).
What is NOT "Bad Quality" (Vendor Protection)
The Vendor is NOT liable for refunds in these scenarios:
Taste Preference: "Too spicy," "Not salty enough," "Don't like the masala," or "Tastes different from last time."
Temperature Loss (Transit): Food getting cold because the transit took too long (technical glitch Platform Fault).
Portion Size: "Looks less than expected" (provided the actual weight/count matches the menu description).
Presentation: "Doesn't look exactly like the photo" (unless it's a completely different item).
The Dispute Resolution Process
Customer Proof: The Customer MUST upload a clear photo/video of the issue (e.g., the hair in the food, the burnt naan, or the expiry date).
Vendor Review: Local Baazaar will share this proof with the Vendor.
Decision:
If Proof is Valid: The refund amount is deducted from the Vendor's payout.
If Proof is Inconclusive: Local Baazaar may absorb the cost as a "Goodwill Refund" to the customer, without penalizing the Vendor.
A. General Support (For Non-Urgent Issues)
Channel: Email (manager.localbaazaar@gmail.com) or "Help" Section in the App.
Availability: Responses within business hours.
Best For: Refund status, account issues, feedback, seller complaints.
B. Callback Requests
Instead of waiting on hold, customers can request a "Call Back" via the App or via message or email according to the availability for complex issues. Our team will call back within 4 hrs during operating hours.
Zero Tolerance for Abuse
While we strive to be helpful, we also protect our employees.
Policy: We have a Zero Tolerance Policy for abusive language, threats, or harassment towards our Customer Service Agents or Partners.
Consequence:
First Warning: The customer will be politely asked to maintain decorum.
Termination: If abuse continues, the chat/call will be terminated, and the user's account may be permanently suspended.
Image & Content Policy
Objective: To ensure all images on Local Baazaar are accurate, high-quality, and respect intellectual property rights.
A. For Shopkeepers (Product & Store Images)
Accuracy Requirement:
Images must be of the actual product being sold.
Prohibited: Using generic internet images that do not match the real item (e.g., showing a polished red apple but delivering a small green one).
Bait and Switch: Misleading images intended to trick the customer will result in immediate listing removal.
Quality Standards:
Images must be clear, well-lit, and not blurry.
Backgrounds should be clean. Displayed image should be with white color background only, (white or solid light color preferred or other images) or show the product in a natural settings and accessories.
No Text Overlays: Images should not contain watermarks, phone numbers, or promotional text (e.g., "Buy 1 Get 1") unless approved by Local Baazaar.
Intellectual Property (Copyright):
Shopkeepers must own the rights to the photos they upload.
Strict Ban: Do not screenshot images from Amazon, Flipkart, or Google Images. Doing so violates copyright laws.
License Grant: By uploading an image to Local Baazaar, the Shopkeeper grants us a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to use, display, and modify the image for marketing and app purposes.
B. For Users (Reviews & Photos)
Relevance: Photos uploaded in reviews must be of the specific item purchased or the shop visited.
Decency: Content involving nudity, violence, hate symbols, or illegal acts is strictly prohibited and will be removed immediately using automated and manual moderation.
Privacy: User photos must not reveal the private information of others (e.g., faces of bystanders, car number plates, private documents).
2. Search, Ranking & Discovery Policy
Objective: To provide transparency on how we rank products and shops in search results, in compliance with the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020.
A. Search Ranking Parameters
Our search algorithms rank products based on a combination of the following factors (in order of importance):
Distance : Shops closest to the User's location appear first to ensure fast pickup.
Availability: Items currently in stock are prioritized over out-of-stock items.
Relevance: How well the product name/description matches the User's search query (e.g., "Organic Rice").
Seller Performance: Shops with higher ratings (4.5+ stars), low cancellation rates, and faster preparation times are boosted, and faster handover times.
Price & Popularity: Competitively priced items and "Best Sellers" may be highlighted.
B. Sponsored Listings (Ads)
Transparency: If a Shopkeeper pays to boost their visibility, their listing will be clearly marked with a tag such as "Sponsored," "Ad," or "Promoted."
Separation: Sponsored results are distinct from organic results and do not affect the organic ranking of other sellers.
C. Restricted Search Items
Users cannot search for or buy items that are illegal or restricted under Indian law. Our search engine will block queries related to:
Alcohol and Tobacco products (unless legally permitted with age gating).
Narcotics or psychotropic substances.
Weapons or ammunition.
Adult/Pornographic content.
"No Unfair Preference"
Local Baazaar is a neutral platform. We do not manipulate search results to unfairly favor:
Specific sellers (unless they are "Sponsored").
Our own private label brands (if any) over third-party sellers.
