Consumer Redressal Agencies
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 establishes Consumer Redressal Agencies to resolve consumer disputes efficiently. These agencies provide a three-tier grievance redressal system at the District, State, and National levels.
Levels of Consumer Redressal Agencies
- District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC): Handles cases up to ₹1 crore.
- State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC): Handles cases between ₹1 crore and ₹10 crores.
- National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC): Handles cases above ₹10 crores.
1. District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC)
Composition:
- President: A District Judge (current or retired).
- Two members, including one woman.
Jurisdiction:
- Accepts complaints where the claim amount does not exceed ₹1 crore.
- Can issue orders for refunds, compensation, and corrective action.
Appeal Process:
- Appeals against DCDRC decisions can be filed before the State Commission within 45 days.
2. State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC)
Composition:
- President: A High Court Judge (current or retired).
- At least four members, including one woman.
Jurisdiction:
- Handles cases where the claim amount is between ₹1 crore and ₹10 crores.
- Can hear appeals against DCDRC decisions.
Appeal Process:
- Appeals against SCDRC decisions can be filed before the National Commission within 30 days.
3. National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC)
Composition:
- President: A Supreme Court Judge (current or retired).
- At least four members, including one woman.
Jurisdiction:
- Handles cases where the claim amount exceeds ₹10 crores.
- Hears appeals against SCDRC decisions.
Appeal Process:
- Appeals against NCDRC decisions can be filed before the Supreme Court within 30 days.
Powers of Consumer Redressal Agencies
- Order refunds and compensation.
- Impose penalties for misleading advertisements.
- Ban hazardous goods and services.
- Order corrective actions against unfair trade practices.