Structure of Consumer Protection Act - 1986
Introduction:
The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 is a legislation in India that ensures the rights of consumers and provides for the establishment of consumer councils and other authorities for the settlement of consumer disputes.
Key Components:
- **Consumer Rights**: The Act provides for six consumer rights, including the right to safety, right to be informed, right to choose, right to be heard, right to seek redressal, and right to consumer education.
- **Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums**: The Act establishes three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state, and national levels for the redressal of consumer disputes.
- **Consumer Protection Councils**: The Act provides for the establishment of Central Consumer Protection Council and State Consumer Protection Councils to promote and protect the rights of consumers.
- **Consumer Protection Act Amendments**: The Act has undergone several amendments over the years to strengthen consumer protection measures and enhance the efficiency of consumer redressal forums.
Objectives:
- To provide better protection of consumers' interests.
- To establish consumer councils at the district, state, and national levels.
- To promote and protect the rights of consumers.
- To ensure speedy and inexpensive redressal of consumer disputes.
Conclusion:
The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of consumers and ensuring that they are not exploited by unscrupulous sellers or service providers. It aims to empower consumers and provide them with a platform to seek redressal for any grievances they may have.