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Know Your Rights/Consumer Rights
Protection Against Unfair Trade Practices

Consumer Rights

The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 empowers consumers with robust rights against defective products, deficient services, and unfair trade practices. Know your rights to make informed choices.

Right 01

Right to Safety

Protection against goods and services that are hazardous to life and property. Consumers have the right to be protected against marketing of goods and services that pose risks to health and safety.

Legal Basis: Section 2(9)(i) of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Right 02

Right to be Informed

Right to be informed about quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard, and price of goods or services. This includes protection against unfair trade practices and misleading advertisements.

Legal Basis: Section 2(9)(ii) of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Right 03

Right to Choose

Access to a variety of goods and services at competitive prices. The right to be assured of satisfactory quality and service at fair prices. No seller can force you to buy bundled products.

Legal Basis: Section 2(9)(iii) of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Right 04

Right to be Heard

Consumer interests receive due consideration at appropriate forums. You have the right to represent yourself or be represented in consumer courts for grievance redressal.

Legal Basis: Section 2(9)(iv) of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Right 05

Right to Seek Redressal

Right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices, restrictive trade practices, or exploitation. You can file complaints and receive fair settlement including compensation for damages.

Legal Basis: Section 2(9)(v) of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Right 06

Right to Consumer Education

Right to acquire knowledge and skills to be an informed consumer. The government must ensure consumer awareness programs to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities.

Legal Basis: Section 2(9)(vi) of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Right 07

Right Against Unfair Contracts

Protection against unfair terms in contracts. Terms that are one-sided, excessive, or unreasonable can be declared void. This includes protection against hidden charges and misleading terms.

Legal Basis: Section 2(46) of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Right 08

Right to Product Liability

Manufacturers, service providers, and sellers are liable for harm caused by defective products or deficient services. You can claim compensation for injury, death, or property damage.

Legal Basis: Chapter VI of Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Important Tips

  • Always keep bills, receipts, and warranty cards as proof of purchase
  • File complaints within 2 years of the cause of action
  • You can file complaints online through e-daakhil portal
  • No lawyer is required to represent yourself in consumer forums
  • Consumer forums must dispose cases within 3-5 months
  • You can claim compensation for mental agony and harassment too
  • E-commerce platforms are also covered under Consumer Protection Act

Legal Provisions

Consumer Protection Act, 2019

  • Section 2 - Definitions (Consumer, Defect, Deficiency)
  • Section 34-37 - Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission
  • Chapter VI - Product Liability
  • Section 89 - Penalties for misleading advertisements

Consumer Forums

  • District Commission - Claims up to ₹1 Crore
  • State Commission - Claims ₹1 Crore to ₹10 Crores
  • National Commission - Claims above ₹10 Crores

Related Laws

  • Legal Metrology Act, 2009
  • Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
  • Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016
  • E-Commerce Rules, 2020

Need Legal Help?

Our advocates can help you understand and exercise these rights.