Consumer Rights Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019

The Consumer Protection Act, 20191 grants every consumer in India a set of fundamental rights to ensure protection from unfair business practices and to promote transparency in the marketplace. Here are the six key consumer rights you should know:

1. Right to Safety

Consumers have the right to protection from goods and services that are hazardous to life, health, and property. This means businesses must ensure their products and services meet safety standards and do not pose risks to consumers. For example, strict safety guidelines for automobiles help prevent accidents caused by manufacturing defects.

2. Right to Be Informed

You have the right to accurate and complete information about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard, and price of goods or services. This right protects consumers from misleading advertisements and unfair trade practices, enabling informed purchasing decisions. The Press Information Bureau details how the Act enforces transparency, especially in e-commerce.

3. Right to Choose

The Act guarantees your freedom to select from a variety of products and services at competitive prices, without coercion or monopolistic pressure. This ensures a fair marketplace where you are not forced into buying a particular product or service. More on this can be found in the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 PDF.

4. Right to Be Heard

Consumers have the right to have their complaints and concerns acknowledged and addressed by businesses or authorities. This includes access to proper complaint resolution channels, such as consumer forums and helplines. The National Consumer Helpline is a key resource for lodging complaints online.

5. Right to Seek Redressal

If you receive a defective product or poor service, you have the right to seek redressal, including compensation, replacement, or refund. The Act simplifies the process for filing complaints and ensures timely resolution through district, state, and national consumer commissions. Learn more about the complaint process here.

6. Right to Consumer Education

The Act emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness, ensuring you know your rights and responsibilities. Initiatives like Jago Grahak Jago and government campaigns help consumers recognize unfair practices and empower them to take action.

Understanding your rights under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 is crucial for protecting yourself from unfair business practices, making informed choices, and ensuring your complaints are heard and resolved. For the full text of the Act, visit the Department of Consumer Affairs.