Learning Objective
- The Consumer in the Marketplace
- Consumer Movement
- Consumer Rights
- Taking the Consumer Movement Forward
The Consumer in the Marketplace
We engage in the market as both producers and consumers.
- As producers, we work in sectors like agriculture, industry, or services.
- Consumers participate by purchasing goods and services for personal use.
- Rules and regulations are essential to safeguard consumers in the marketplace.
Consumer Movement
In India, the consumer movement emerged as a response to the need to safeguard consumer interests from unethical trade practices. In 1986, the Indian government took a significant step by implementing the Consumer Protection Act 1986, commonly referred to as COPRA.
Consumer Rights
Safety Is Everyone’s Right
Consumers have the right to be protected against the marketing of goods and delivery of services that are hazardous to life and property. Producers need to strictly follow the required safety rules and regulations.
Information about Goods and Services
- When purchasing goods, consumers are provided with details such as ingredients, price, batch number, manufacturing and expiry dates, and manufacturer’s address. This information empowers consumers to make informed choices and seek compensation or replacement for defective products.
- In October 2005, the Government of India introduced the Right to Information (RTI) Act, ensuring citizens’ access to information regarding government department functions.
When Choice Is Denied
Every consumer, irrespective of age, gender, or nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue receiving a service or not.
Where Should Consumers Go to Get Justice?
Consumer protection organizations, such as consumer forums and councils, assist consumers in seeking redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. The Consumer Protection Act (COPRA) established a three-tier quasi-judicial system:
- District Forum: Handles cases with claims up to Rs 20 lakh.
- State Commission: Addresses cases with claims between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 1 crore.
- National Commission: Deals with cases exceeding Rs 1 crore.
Consumers dissatisfied with district-level court rulings can appeal to higher courts at the state and national levels.
Learning to Become Well-Informed Consumers
The implementation of COPRA has prompted the establishment of separate Consumer Affairs departments in central and state governments. Logos like ISI, Agmark, or Hallmark provide consumers assurance of quality when purchasing goods and services.
Taking the Consumer Movement Forward
India has dedicated consumer redressal courts, and National Consumers’ Day is observed on 24 December. Despite over 25 years since COPRA’s enactment, consumer awareness in the country is gradually increasing. To accelerate the consumer movement, voluntary efforts and active public participation are essential.
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