Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the specific section in the Consumer Protection Act that defines the term "complainant." (Note: This question likely refers to the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, as the exam was in 2010. The Act has been replaced by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, but the section numbering for definitions is similar).
Step 2: Key Legal Provision:
Section 2 of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, contains definitions of various terms used in the Act.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986:
- Section 2(1)(b) defines the term "complainant." A complainant can be a consumer, any voluntary consumer association, the Central or State Government, one or more consumers having the same interest, or in case of death of a consumer, his legal heir or representative.
- Section 20 of the 1986 Act dealt with the composition of the National Commission.
- Section 21 of the 1986 Act dealt with the jurisdiction of the National Commission.
For reference, in the new Consumer Protection Act, 2019, the definition of "complainant" is in Section 2(5). However, based on the options and the era of the question paper, the relevant Act is the 1986 Act.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The definition of "complainant" is described in Section 2(1)(b) of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.