The organisation which helps guide the consumers on how to file cases ...
Consumer Forums
Consumer forums, also known as consumer courts, are the organizations that help guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer courts. These forums are established to protect the rights and interests of consumers and ensure that they receive fair treatment in the marketplace.
Role of Consumer Forums
Consumer forums play a crucial role in resolving consumer disputes and providing a platform for consumers to seek redressal for any grievances they may have against sellers, service providers, or manufacturers. Here are some key aspects of their role:
- Information and guidance: Consumer forums provide consumers with information and guidance on their rights, responsibilities, and the legal procedures involved in filing a case.
- Complaint registration: They assist consumers in registering their complaints in a proper format and guide them through the necessary documentation and evidence required to support their case.
- Mediation and negotiation: Consumer forums often attempt to mediate and negotiate a settlement between the consumer and the opposite party before moving forward with a formal legal process.
- Legal representation: They inform consumers about their rights to legal representation and may even provide assistance in finding suitable lawyers to represent their case.
- Case filing and hearings: Consumer forums help consumers in filing their cases in the consumer courts and ensure that the necessary paperwork is completed accurately. They also guide consumers through the hearing process and assist them in presenting their case effectively.
- Consumer education: These forums conduct awareness programs and workshops to educate consumers about their rights, how to make informed choices, and how to protect themselves from unfair trade practices.
Consumer Forums vs. Consumer Associations
While consumer forums primarily focus on resolving individual consumer disputes, consumer associations, on the other hand, work towards protecting the collective interests of consumers. Consumer associations often engage in advocacy, lobbying, and policy-making activities to promote consumer rights and influence the development of consumer-friendly policies and regulations.
Consumer forums, as the name suggests, serve as forums for consumers to seek redressal for their individual grievances. They are usually established under the Consumer Protection Act, which empowers them to hear and decide consumer complaints.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option 'C' - consumer forums.