Consumer Protection Act
Objects of the Act Better protection of consumer interests Protection of consumer rights – hazardous nature, quality quantity, price, to be heard, redressal, consumer education Consumer protection council Quasi judicial
Unfair trade practice False representation of quality, standard False representation of quality, standard of service Rebuilt and second hand goods as new Represents that goods have certain uses or benefits which they do not have Represents that the seller has approval or affiliation which he does not have Misleading representation of goods or services Warranty or guarantee not based on proper test. Misleads the public regarding the price
Restrictive Trade Practice Delay beyond the period agreed by the trader in supply of goods or services Any trade practice which requires a consumer to buy, hire any service precedent to buying or hiring of services.
Central Consumer Protection Council The Minister in charge of consumer affairs in central Govt as chairman The minister of state is Vice-chairman Ministers of food & supplies in state 8 MP Commissioner for SC & ST 20 Representatives of central govt, autonomous org concerned with consumer interest
Contd 35 Representatives of consumer organizations 10 women representatives 20 representatives of farmers, trade and industry 15 persons capable of representing consumer interests Secretary in the department of civil supplies shall be the member secretary
Objects of the Council Right to protect against the marketing of goods & services hazardous to life and property Right to be informed about the quality, quantity, purity Right to be assured to variety of goods and services at competitive prices Right to be heard Right to seek redressal Right to consumer education
State Consumer Protection Council Objects Same as Central council Membership Minister in – charge shall be the chairman Official & non-official members prescribed by state govt Official & non-official members prescribed by central govt
District Council Members District collector Official & non-official members
Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum- District Forum Composition Qualified district judge as president 2 members one should be women Term of office Jurisdiction – Claim not exceeding Rs. 20 lakhs
Procedure for Complaint By consumer Recognized consumer association One or more consumers Central or state govt
Procedure on Receipt of Complaint Complaint relating to goods Denial of allegation Reference of sample to laboratory Deposit of fees Remission of fees Objections by any parties Reasonable opportunity of being heard
State Commission Membership Jurisdiction Procedure
National Commission Membership Jurisdiction Procedure