Consumer Law

Consumer lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in representing consumers in matters related to their rights and protections as buyers of goods or services. They advocate for consumers who have faced issues such as product defects, fraud, misleading advertising, or poor service quality. In India, consumer rights are protected by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Here are some key sections related to consumer rights under Indian law:

1. Consumer Protection Act, 2019:

The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, is a comprehensive legislation that provides for the protection of consumer rights and interests. It establishes various rights and responsibilities for consumers and outlines the procedures for filing complaints.

Notable Sections in the Consumer Protection Act, 2019:

  • Section 2(7) – Consumer: Defines who can be considered a consumer under the Act.
  • Section 2(21) – Deficiency: Defines “deficiency” in the context of goods or services not meeting the standards expected by the consumer.
  • Section 2(34) – Unfair Trade Practices: Enumerates various unfair trade practices that are prohibited.
  • Section 18 – Determination of the Liability of the Product Manufacturer: Sets out provisions for determining liability in cases of product defects.
  • Section 24 – Jurisdiction of District Commission: Specifies the jurisdiction of the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.

2. National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC):

The NCDRC is a quasi-judicial body established at the national level to hear appeals from state-level consumer forums.

Notable Sections in the Consumer Protection Act, 1986:

  • Section 21 – Jurisdiction of the National Commission: Defines the jurisdiction of the National Commission in hearing appeals.

3. State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions:

Each state in India has its own State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission that addresses consumer complaints within the state.

Notable Sections in the Consumer Protection Act, 1986:

  • Section 17 – Jurisdiction of the State Commission: Defines the jurisdiction of the State Commission in hearing complaints.

4. District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions:

District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions are established at the district level to hear complaints from consumers.

Notable Sections in the Consumer Protection Act, 1986:

  • Section 11 – Jurisdiction of the District Commission: Specifies the jurisdiction of the District Commission in hearing complaints.

5. Consumer Forums:

Consumer forums, also known as Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums, are established at the district, state, and national levels to provide a forum for consumers to file complaints against unfair trade practices.

6. Central Consumer Protection Council:

The Central Consumer Protection Council is a consultative body that advises on matters related to consumer protection policies and programs.

7. Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016:

This act establishes the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to formulate and implement standards for goods and services to ensure consumer safety and quality.