The Act envisages a three tier quasi judicial system. They are known as (i) District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum (ii) State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission and (iii) National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.
A. Features of Consumer Protection Act, 1986 and filing of complaints-
- Simple formalities
- Advocates not compulsory
- Consumers themselves can conduct cases
- Complaints may be sent even through Registered Post
- Registered Consumer Organisations or Government can also file complaint on behalf of consumer(s)
- Less expensive
- Compensation can be claimed for the loss suffered including mental agony
Protection offered by Consumer Protection Act, 1986 against:
- Deficiency in product or service
- Poor aftersales service
- Damage/Loss to health, life and property due to product
- Hazards arising out of product/service
- Unjust enrichment through unfair means
- Misleading advertisements
- Unfair Trade Practices
- Restrictive Trade Practices (like tie-up sales)
- Violations of any other applicable laws or regulations
B. Grievance Redressal-
- Consumer should send a detailed petition to the dealer / service provider through registered post pointing out the defect / deficiency and details regarding relief sought for
- Copy of the petition with postal acknowledgement card to be preserved
- If the dealer / service provider not responded in time consumer may approach District Consumer Protection Council headed by District Collector (for districts other than Chennai) or Commissioner of Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection (in Chennai) or Reputed Consumer Organisation who will be sending notices to the dealer / service provider on behalf of consumer
- If no remedy available through all above agencies, then relevant Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission / Forum as the case may be approached to file a complaint against
- dealer / service provider
