What legal measures were taken by government to empower consumers in I...
1. The Consumer Protection Act, 1986: This legislation protects the interests of consumers in India by providing for the establishment of consumer councils and other authorities for quick disposal of consumer complaints and to promote and protect the rights of consumers.
2. The Right to Information Act, 2005: This Act provides Indian citizens with the right to access information from any public authority. It has enabled consumers to seek redressal for grievances related to service quality, pricing, hidden terms and conditions, etc.
3. The Competition Act, 2002: This Act aims to ensure fair and healthy competition in the market so as to protect the interests of consumers. It prohibits anti-competitive practices and regulates mergers and acquisitions.
4. Unfair Trade Practices Act, 1986: This Act gives consumers the right to sue traders who engage in deceptive advertising, false pricing, etc. It also makes it mandatory for businesses to provide proper information regarding product prices, quality and other details.
5. The Essential Commodities Act 1955: This Act seeks to regulate production, supply, distribution and prices of essential commodities and to prevent unscrupulous traders from hoarding and profiteering.
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What legal measures were taken by government to empower consumers in I...
Introduction:
In order to protect the rights and interests of consumers in India, the government has taken several legal measures to empower consumers. These measures aim to ensure fair trade practices, prevent monopolies, promote consumer awareness, and provide a platform for grievance redressal.
1. Consumer Protection Act, 2019:
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 is a comprehensive legislation enacted by the government to replace the outdated Consumer Protection Act, 1986. This new act provides enhanced rights and protection to consumers, including the establishment of a Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to regulate matters related to consumer rights and ensure fair trade practices.
2. Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions:
The government has set up Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions at the district, state, and national levels. These commissions provide a platform for consumers to file complaints and seek redressal for issues related to defective products, deficient services, unfair trade practices, and more. These commissions have the power to award compensation to consumers and take action against erring businesses.
3. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS):
The Bureau of Indian Standards is a government agency responsible for the formulation and implementation of standards for goods, services, and systems in India. BIS ensures that products adhere to quality standards and are safe for consumers. It grants the ISI mark, a certification that assures consumers of the quality and safety of products.
4. Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI):
The Advertising Standards Council of India is a self-regulatory organization established by the government to regulate advertising practices in India. It ensures that advertisements are truthful, not misleading, and do not make false claims. ASCI takes action against misleading advertisements and protects consumer interests.
5. Right to Information (RTI) Act:
The Right to Information Act empowers consumers with the right to seek information from government departments and agencies. This act enables consumers to access information about products, services, and regulations, which promotes transparency and accountability.
6. National Consumer Helpline (NCH):
The government has set up the National Consumer Helpline, a toll-free helpline number (1800-11-4000) that consumers can call to seek information, lodge complaints, and receive guidance regarding consumer rights and redressal mechanisms. The helpline operates in multiple languages and provides assistance to consumers across the country.
Conclusion:
Through these legal measures, the government of India has taken significant steps to empower consumers. These measures not only protect consumer rights but also promote fair trade practices, ensure product quality and safety, and provide avenues for grievance redressal. By creating a consumer-friendly environment, the government aims to strengthen consumer confidence and ensure a fair marketplace for all.
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