Consumer Protection
Fight defective products, misleading ads, overcharging, and unfair trade practices through consumer courts.
Know Your Rights
In Simple Words
If you buy a product and it turns out to be defective, broken, or does not work as advertised, you have the right to demand a repair, replacement, or full refund from the seller or manufacturer. The Consumer Protection Act 2019 protects you even for online purchases. You can file a complaint in the Consumer Commission without needing a lawyer.
Relevant Law
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 - Section 2(10) — Defect, Section 39 — Filing of Complaint
In Simple Words
If a product you bought does not match its description, is of poor quality, or the service you paid for was never delivered or was substandard, you can demand a full refund. This applies to both online and offline purchases. The seller cannot refuse a refund by offering only a credit note or exchange if the product is genuinely defective.
Relevant Law
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 - Section 39(1)(b) and Section 40
In Simple Words
If you buy a product or service based on an advertisement that made false claims — like "guaranteed weight loss" or "100% natural" when it is not — you have the right to complain. The company and even the endorser (celebrity or influencer) can be held liable. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) can impose heavy penalties for misleading ads.
Relevant Law
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 - Section 2(28) — Misleading Advertisement, Section 21 — CCPA Powers
In Simple Words
It is illegal for any shop, restaurant, multiplex, or seller to charge you more than the MRP printed on a product. The MRP includes all taxes. If a restaurant charges above MRP for bottled water or a shop charges extra on packaged goods, you can refuse to pay and file a complaint.
Relevant Law
Legal Metrology Act, 2009 - Section 18 and Rule 6 of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011
In Simple Words
You can file a complaint in a Consumer Court (now called Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission) against any seller, manufacturer, or service provider. You do not need a lawyer — you can argue your own case. The filing fee is very low (free for claims up to ₹5 lakh). Complaints can now be filed online through the e-Daakhil portal.
Relevant Law
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 - Section 34 and Section 35
In Simple Words
When you buy something online, you have the right to clear information about the product, seller details, return/refund policy, and delivery timeline. If the product delivered is different from what was shown, defective, or not delivered at all, you can demand a return or refund. E-commerce platforms cannot impose unfair terms or refuse returns for genuine issues.
Relevant Law
Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 - Rule 4, Rule 5, and Rule 6
In Simple Words
If a product comes with a warranty, the manufacturer or seller must repair or replace it free of cost during the warranty period. They cannot refuse warranty service by citing minor issues or claiming "physical damage" without proper inspection. Even if you have lost the warranty card, your purchase bill serves as proof of warranty.
Relevant Law
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 - Section 2(9) — Definition of Complaint, Section 39
In Simple Words
If you buy food that is expired, adulterated, contaminated, or does not match its label (e.g., contains undeclared allergens or harmful chemicals), you can file a complaint. Food businesses must have FSSAI license, follow hygiene standards, and clearly label ingredients, expiry dates, and nutritional information.
Relevant Law
Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 - Section 26 and Section 59
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