When was the Consumer Protection Act established?
24th December, 1986
The Consumer Protection Act is a legislation enacted by the government to protect the rights and interests of consumers in India. It provides a legal framework for consumers to seek redressal against unfair trade practices, defective products, and deficient services. The key features of the Consumer Protection Act include:
Consumer Rights: The Act recognizes six fundamental rights of consumers, including the right to safety, right to be informed, right to choose, right to be heard, right to seek redressal, and right to consumer education. These rights empower consumers and ensure their protection in the marketplace.
Consumer Complaints: The Act establishes consumer courts at the district, state, and national levels to handle consumer complaints. Consumers can file complaints against sellers, manufacturers, and service providers for issues such as defective products, misleading advertisements, and unfair trade practices.
Compensation and Redressal: The Act provides provisions for consumers to claim compensation and seek redressal for any harm or loss suffered due to the purchase of defective goods or deficient services. Consumers can seek refund, replacement, or repair of the product, and can also claim compensation for any injury or damage caused.
Consumer Protection Councils: The Act establishes Consumer Protection Councils at the district, state, and national levels to promote consumer awareness, education, and protection. These councils play a crucial role in spreading consumer awareness, conducting surveys, and advising the government on consumer-related issues.
Unfair Trade Practices: The Act prohibits unfair trade practices such as misleading advertisements, selling of adulterated or counterfeit products, and charging excessive prices. It provides provisions for consumers to seek legal action against such practices.
Product Liability: The Act introduces the concept of product liability, making manufacturers, sellers, and service providers responsible for any harm caused by defective products or services. Consumers can claim compensation for any injury, damage, or loss suffered due to the use of a faulty product or service.
The Consumer Protection Act aims to safeguard consumer interests, promote fair trade practices, and ensure accountability of sellers and service providers. It empowers consumers to assert their rights, seek redressal, and contribute to a fair and transparent marketplace.