Chapter 5: Consumer Rights

INTRODUCTION : 
In this chapter we shall read how consumers are exploited and what steps the government is taking to protect their interests. What are the factors causing exploitation of consumers. How consumer movement originated as a social force with the necessity of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unethical and unfair trade practices. The Indian government enacted the COPRA in 1986 on 24th December. Since then this day is celebrated as consumer Day in India. In October 2005, the government of India also enacted the RTI (Right to Information) Act which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments under COPRA a three tier quasi judicial machinery has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. In this chapter we shall also focus on the Duties of a Consumer and the drawback of COPRA.  

Important terms:
    ·     Consumers. People who buy different articles to satisfy their needs.
    ·    Producers. People who manufacture or distribute different articles . 
    ·    Retailers. Shopkeepers who sell articles to the customer.
    ·    National Consumer Dispute Redressal. Consumer Court at the National level.
    ·    State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. Consumer Court at the State level.
    ·    Consumer International. Consumer Court at the International level.
    ·    District Consumer Court or District Forum. Consumer Court at the District level.
    ·    P. D.S. Public Distribution System initiated by the government to ensure the supply of essential goods at all corners of the country.
    ·    F.P.S. Fair Price Shops which are set up by the government to sell the essential goods at nominal price.
    ·    COPRA. Consumer Protection Act 1986 which was enacted by the government of India in 1986 to correct business conduct.
   ·   RTI. Right to Information Act which was enacted by the government of India in October 2005 to ensure its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.

Rise of Consumer Awareness : –
· In India, the concept of consumer protection is not new. References to the protection of consumers’ interest against exploitation by trade and industry,     underweight and measurement, adulteration and punishment for these offences, were made in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
· When the government withdrew itself from production activites and allowed the private sector to take over, it was felt that there is a greater need to           enforce discipline and regulation in the market.
 · Food safety become an important element of consumer awareness these days.
· This called for a strong legal measure to ensure that the manufacturers and sellers observe uniformity and transparency in prices, stocks and quality of their goods.

INTRODUCTION : 
In this chapter we shall read how consumers are exploited and what steps the government is taking to protect their interests. What are the factors causing exploitation of consumers. How consumer movement originated as a social force with the necessity of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unethical and unfair trade practices. The Indian government enacted the COPRA in 1986 on 24th December. Since then this day is celebrated as consumer Day in India. In October 2005, the government of India also enacted the RTI (Right to Information) Act which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments under COPRA a three tier quasi judicial machinery has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. In this chapter we shall also focus on the Duties of a Consumer and the drawback of COPRA.  

Important terms:
    ·     Consumers. People who buy different articles to satisfy their needs.
    ·    Producers. People who manufacture or distribute different articles . 
    ·    Retailers. Shopkeepers who sell articles to the customer.
    ·    National Consumer Dispute Redressal. Consumer Court at the National level.
    ·    State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. Consumer Court at the State level.
    ·    Consumer International. Consumer Court at the International level.
    ·    District Consumer Court or District Forum. Consumer Court at the District level.
    ·    P. D.S. Public Distribution System initiated by the government to ensure the supply of essential goods at all corners of the country.
    ·    F.P.S. Fair Price Shops which are set up by the government to sell the essential goods at nominal price.
    ·    COPRA. Consumer Protection Act 1986 which was enacted by the government of India in 1986 to correct business conduct.
   ·   RTI. Right to Information Act which was enacted by the government of India in October 2005 to ensure its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.

Rise of Consumer Awareness : –
· In India, the concept of consumer protection is not new. References to the protection of consumers’ interest against exploitation by trade and industry,     underweight and measurement, adulteration and punishment for these offences, were made in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
· When the government withdrew itself from production activites and allowed the private sector to take over, it was felt that there is a greater need to           enforce discipline and regulation in the market.
 · Food safety become an important element of consumer awareness these days.
· This called for a strong legal measure to ensure that the manufacturers and sellers observe uniformity and transparency in prices, stocks and quality of their goods.

INTRODUCTION : 
In this chapter we shall read how consumers are exploited and what steps the government is taking to protect their interests. What are the factors causing exploitation of consumers. How consumer movement originated as a social force with the necessity of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unethical and unfair trade practices. The Indian government enacted the COPRA in 1986 on 24th December. Since then this day is celebrated as consumer Day in India. In October 2005, the government of India also enacted the RTI (Right to Information) Act which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments under COPRA a three tier quasi judicial machinery has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. In this chapter we shall also focus on the Duties of a Consumer and the drawback of COPRA.  

Important terms:
    ·     Consumers. People who buy different articles to satisfy their needs.
    ·    Producers. People who manufacture or distribute different articles . 
    ·    Retailers. Shopkeepers who sell articles to the customer.
    ·    National Consumer Dispute Redressal. Consumer Court at the National level.
    ·    State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. Consumer Court at the State level.
    ·    Consumer International. Consumer Court at the International level.
    ·    District Consumer Court or District Forum. Consumer Court at the District level.
    ·    P. D.S. Public Distribution System initiated by the government to ensure the supply of essential goods at all corners of the country.
    ·    F.P.S. Fair Price Shops which are set up by the government to sell the essential goods at nominal price.
    ·    COPRA. Consumer Protection Act 1986 which was enacted by the government of India in 1986 to correct business conduct.
   ·   RTI. Right to Information Act which was enacted by the government of India in October 2005 to ensure its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.

Rise of Consumer Awareness : –
· In India, the concept of consumer protection is not new. References to the protection of consumers’ interest against exploitation by trade and industry,     underweight and measurement, adulteration and punishment for these offences, were made in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
· When the government withdrew itself from production activites and allowed the private sector to take over, it was felt that there is a greater need to           enforce discipline and regulation in the market.
 · Food safety become an important element of consumer awareness these days.
· This called for a strong legal measure to ensure that the manufacturers and sellers observe uniformity and transparency in prices, stocks and quality of their goods.

INTRODUCTION : 
In this chapter we shall read how consumers are exploited and what steps the government is taking to protect their interests. What are the factors causing exploitation of consumers. How consumer movement originated as a social force with the necessity of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unethical and unfair trade practices. The Indian government enacted the COPRA in 1986 on 24th December. Since then this day is celebrated as consumer Day in India. In October 2005, the government of India also enacted the RTI (Right to Information) Act which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments under COPRA a three tier quasi judicial machinery has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. In this chapter we shall also focus on the Duties of a Consumer and the drawback of COPRA.  

Important terms:
    ·     Consumers. People who buy different articles to satisfy their needs.
    ·    Producers. People who manufacture or distribute different articles . 
    ·    Retailers. Shopkeepers who sell articles to the customer.
    ·    National Consumer Dispute Redressal. Consumer Court at the National level.
    ·    State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. Consumer Court at the State level.
    ·    Consumer International. Consumer Court at the International level.
    ·    District Consumer Court or District Forum. Consumer Court at the District level.
    ·    P. D.S. Public Distribution System initiated by the government to ensure the supply of essential goods at all corners of the country.
    ·    F.P.S. Fair Price Shops which are set up by the government to sell the essential goods at nominal price.
    ·    COPRA. Consumer Protection Act 1986 which was enacted by the government of India in 1986 to correct business conduct.
   ·   RTI. Right to Information Act which was enacted by the government of India in October 2005 to ensure its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.

Rise of Consumer Awareness : –
· In India, the concept of consumer protection is not new. References to the protection of consumers’ interest against exploitation by trade and industry,     underweight and measurement, adulteration and punishment for these offences, were made in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
· When the government withdrew itself from production activites and allowed the private sector to take over, it was felt that there is a greater need to           enforce discipline and regulation in the market.
 · Food safety become an important element of consumer awareness these days.
· This called for a strong legal measure to ensure that the manufacturers and sellers observe uniformity and transparency in prices, stocks and quality of their goods.

INTRODUCTION : 
In this chapter we shall read how consumers are exploited and what steps the government is taking to protect their interests. What are the factors causing exploitation of consumers. How consumer movement originated as a social force with the necessity of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unethical and unfair trade practices. The Indian government enacted the COPRA in 1986 on 24th December. Since then this day is celebrated as consumer Day in India. In October 2005, the government of India also enacted the RTI (Right to Information) Act which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments under COPRA a three tier quasi judicial machinery has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. In this chapter we shall also focus on the Duties of a Consumer and the drawback of COPRA.  

Important terms:
    ·     Consumers. People who buy different articles to satisfy their needs.
    ·    Producers. People who manufacture or distribute different articles . 
    ·    Retailers. Shopkeepers who sell articles to the customer.
    ·    National Consumer Dispute Redressal. Consumer Court at the National level.
    ·    State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. Consumer Court at the State level.
    ·    Consumer International. Consumer Court at the International level.
    ·    District Consumer Court or District Forum. Consumer Court at the District level.
    ·    P. D.S. Public Distribution System initiated by the government to ensure the supply of essential goods at all corners of the country.
    ·    F.P.S. Fair Price Shops which are set up by the government to sell the essential goods at nominal price.
    ·    COPRA. Consumer Protection Act 1986 which was enacted by the government of India in 1986 to correct business conduct.
   ·   RTI. Right to Information Act which was enacted by the government of India in October 2005 to ensure its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.

Rise of Consumer Awareness : –
· In India, the concept of consumer protection is not new. References to the protection of consumers’ interest against exploitation by trade and industry,     underweight and measurement, adulteration and punishment for these offences, were made in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
· When the government withdrew itself from production activites and allowed the private sector to take over, it was felt that there is a greater need to           enforce discipline and regulation in the market.
 · Food safety become an important element of consumer awareness these days.
· This called for a strong legal measure to ensure that the manufacturers and sellers observe uniformity and transparency in prices, stocks and quality of their goods.

INTRODUCTION : 
In this chapter we shall read how consumers are exploited and what steps the government is taking to protect their interests. What are the factors causing exploitation of consumers. How consumer movement originated as a social force with the necessity of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unethical and unfair trade practices. The Indian government enacted the COPRA in 1986 on 24th December. Since then this day is celebrated as consumer Day in India. In October 2005, the government of India also enacted the RTI (Right to Information) Act which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments under COPRA a three tier quasi judicial machinery has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. In this chapter we shall also focus on the Duties of a Consumer and the drawback of COPRA.  

Important terms:
    ·     Consumers. People who buy different articles to satisfy their needs.
    ·    Producers. People who manufacture or distribute different articles . 
    ·    Retailers. Shopkeepers who sell articles to the customer.
    ·    National Consumer Dispute Redressal. Consumer Court at the National level.
    ·    State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. Consumer Court at the State level.
    ·    Consumer International. Consumer Court at the International level.
    ·    District Consumer Court or District Forum. Consumer Court at the District level.
    ·    P. D.S. Public Distribution System initiated by the government to ensure the supply of essential goods at all corners of the country.
    ·    F.P.S. Fair Price Shops which are set up by the government to sell the essential goods at nominal price.
    ·    COPRA. Consumer Protection Act 1986 which was enacted by the government of India in 1986 to correct business conduct.
   ·   RTI. Right to Information Act which was enacted by the government of India in October 2005 to ensure its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.

Rise of Consumer Awareness : –
· In India, the concept of consumer protection is not new. References to the protection of consumers’ interest against exploitation by trade and industry,     underweight and measurement, adulteration and punishment for these offences, were made in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
· When the government withdrew itself from production activites and allowed the private sector to take over, it was felt that there is a greater need to           enforce discipline and regulation in the market.
 · Food safety become an important element of consumer awareness these days.
· This called for a strong legal measure to ensure that the manufacturers and sellers observe uniformity and transparency in prices, stocks and quality of their goods.

INTRODUCTION : 
In this chapter we shall read how consumers are exploited and what steps the government is taking to protect their interests. What are the factors causing exploitation of consumers. How consumer movement originated as a social force with the necessity of protecting and promoting the interests of consumers against unethical and unfair trade practices. The Indian government enacted the COPRA in 1986 on 24th December. Since then this day is celebrated as consumer Day in India. In October 2005, the government of India also enacted the RTI (Right to Information) Act which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments under COPRA a three tier quasi judicial machinery has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. In this chapter we shall also focus on the Duties of a Consumer and the drawback of COPRA.  

Important terms:
    ·     Consumers. People who buy different articles to satisfy their needs.
    ·    Producers. People who manufacture or distribute different articles . 
    ·    Retailers. Shopkeepers who sell articles to the customer.
    ·    National Consumer Dispute Redressal. Consumer Court at the National level.
    ·    State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. Consumer Court at the State level.
    ·    Consumer International. Consumer Court at the International level.
    ·    District Consumer Court or District Forum. Consumer Court at the District level.
    ·    P. D.S. Public Distribution System initiated by the government to ensure the supply of essential goods at all corners of the country.
    ·    F.P.S. Fair Price Shops which are set up by the government to sell the essential goods at nominal price.
    ·    COPRA. Consumer Protection Act 1986 which was enacted by the government of India in 1986 to correct business conduct.
   ·   RTI. Right to Information Act which was enacted by the government of India in October 2005 to ensure its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.

Rise of Consumer Awareness : –
· In India, the concept of consumer protection is not new. References to the protection of consumers’ interest against exploitation by trade and industry,     underweight and measurement, adulteration and punishment for these offences, were made in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
· When the government withdrew itself from production activites and allowed the private sector to take over, it was felt that there is a greater need to           enforce discipline and regulation in the market.
 · Food safety become an important element of consumer awareness these days.
· This called for a strong legal measure to ensure that the manufacturers and sellers observe uniformity and transparency in prices, stocks and quality of their goods.

THE CONSUMER IN THE MARKETPLACE :
We participate in the market both as producers and consumers. As producers of goods and services we could be working in any of the sectors discussed earlier such as agriculture. Industry, or services. Consumers participate in the market when they purchase goods and services that they need. These are the final goods that people as consumers use.
What is the need for rules and regulations or steps in the market that would promote development?
These could be for the protection of workers in the unorganised sector or to protect people from high interest rates charged by moneylenders in the informal sector.
Similarly, rules and regulations are also required for protecting the environment.

For example, moneylenders in the informal sector adopt various tricks to bind the borrower: they could make the producer sell the produce to them at a low rate in return for a timely loan; they could force a small farmer like Swapna to sell her land to pay back the loan. Similarly, many people who work in the unorganised sector have to work at a low wage and accept conditions that are not fair and are also often harmful to their health. To prevent such exploitation, we have talked of rules and regulations for their protection. There are organisations that have struggled for long to ensure that these rules are followed.
Likewise, rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace. Individual consumers often find themselves in a weak position. Whenever there is a complaint regarding a good or service that had been bought, the seller tries to shift all the responsibility on to the buyer, as if the seller has no responsibility once a sale is completed! The consumer movement is an effort to change this situation.
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various ways.
Sometimes traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or when adulterated/defective goods are sold.
Markets do not work in a fair manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts and are scattered. This happens especially when large companies are producing these goods.
At times false information is passed on through the media, and other sources to attract consumers.
Hence, there is a need for rules and regulations to ensure protection for consumers.

Illustration 1
    When do consumers participate in the market?
Solution
    Consumers are participants in the market process when purchase goods and services for their use.

Illustration 2
    When do markets tend to be unfair?
Solution
    Markets do not work in a fair manner when there are a few and powerful producers and consumers purchase only in small amounts and are scattered.

Illustration 3
    What is the need for rules and regulations in the market place?
Solution
    Rules and regulations are needed for the protection of the consumers when they find themselves in a weak position.

CONSUMER MOVEMENT :
The consumer movement arose out of dissatisfaction of the consumers as many unfair practices were being indulged in by the sellers.
There was no legal system available to consumers to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.
For a long time, when a consumer was not happy with a particular brand product or shop, he or she generally avoided buying that brand product, or would stop purchasing from that shop. It was presumed that it was the responsibility of consumers to be careful while buying a commodity or service.
It look many years for organisations in India, and around the world, to create awareness amongst people.
 More  recently, India witnessed an upsurge in the number of consumer groups.
 Because of all these efforts, the movement succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms as well as government to correct business conduct which may be unfair and against the interests of consumers at large.
A major step taken in 1986 by the Indian government was the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act1986, popularly known as COPRA.

Illustration 4
    Why did consumer movements arise?
Solution
    Consumer Movements arose due to dissatisfaction of the consumer as many unfair practices were being  indulged by the seller.

Illustration 5
    What major step was taken by Indian government in 1986?
Solution
    Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 to protect consumers against unfair trade practices. 

THE CONSUMER IN THE MARKETPLACE :
We participate in the market both as producers and consumers. As producers of goods and services we could be working in any of the sectors discussed earlier such as agriculture. Industry, or services. Consumers participate in the market when they purchase goods and services that they need. These are the final goods that people as consumers use.
What is the need for rules and regulations or steps in the market that would promote development?
These could be for the protection of workers in the unorganised sector or to protect people from high interest rates charged by moneylenders in the informal sector.
Similarly, rules and regulations are also required for protecting the environment.

For example, moneylenders in the informal sector adopt various tricks to bind the borrower: they could make the producer sell the produce to them at a low rate in return for a timely loan; they could force a small farmer like Swapna to sell her land to pay back the loan. Similarly, many people who work in the unorganised sector have to work at a low wage and accept conditions that are not fair and are also often harmful to their health. To prevent such exploitation, we have talked of rules and regulations for their protection. There are organisations that have struggled for long to ensure that these rules are followed.
Likewise, rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace. Individual consumers often find themselves in a weak position. Whenever there is a complaint regarding a good or service that had been bought, the seller tries to shift all the responsibility on to the buyer, as if the seller has no responsibility once a sale is completed! The consumer movement is an effort to change this situation.
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various ways.
Sometimes traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or when adulterated/defective goods are sold.
Markets do not work in a fair manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts and are scattered. This happens especially when large companies are producing these goods.
At times false information is passed on through the media, and other sources to attract consumers.
Hence, there is a need for rules and regulations to ensure protection for consumers.

Illustration 1
    When do consumers participate in the market?
Solution
    Consumers are participants in the market process when purchase goods and services for their use.

Illustration 2
    When do markets tend to be unfair?
Solution
    Markets do not work in a fair manner when there are a few and powerful producers and consumers purchase only in small amounts and are scattered.

Illustration 3
    What is the need for rules and regulations in the market place?
Solution
    Rules and regulations are needed for the protection of the consumers when they find themselves in a weak position.

CONSUMER MOVEMENT :
The consumer movement arose out of dissatisfaction of the consumers as many unfair practices were being indulged in by the sellers.
There was no legal system available to consumers to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.
For a long time, when a consumer was not happy with a particular brand product or shop, he or she generally avoided buying that brand product, or would stop purchasing from that shop. It was presumed that it was the responsibility of consumers to be careful while buying a commodity or service.
It look many years for organisations in India, and around the world, to create awareness amongst people.
 More  recently, India witnessed an upsurge in the number of consumer groups.
 Because of all these efforts, the movement succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms as well as government to correct business conduct which may be unfair and against the interests of consumers at large.
A major step taken in 1986 by the Indian government was the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act1986, popularly known as COPRA.

Illustration 4
    Why did consumer movements arise?
Solution
    Consumer Movements arose due to dissatisfaction of the consumer as many unfair practices were being  indulged by the seller.

Illustration 5
    What major step was taken by Indian government in 1986?
Solution
    Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 to protect consumers against unfair trade practices. 

THE CONSUMER IN THE MARKETPLACE :
We participate in the market both as producers and consumers. As producers of goods and services we could be working in any of the sectors discussed earlier such as agriculture. Industry, or services. Consumers participate in the market when they purchase goods and services that they need. These are the final goods that people as consumers use.
What is the need for rules and regulations or steps in the market that would promote development?
These could be for the protection of workers in the unorganised sector or to protect people from high interest rates charged by moneylenders in the informal sector.
Similarly, rules and regulations are also required for protecting the environment.

For example, moneylenders in the informal sector adopt various tricks to bind the borrower: they could make the producer sell the produce to them at a low rate in return for a timely loan; they could force a small farmer like Swapna to sell her land to pay back the loan. Similarly, many people who work in the unorganised sector have to work at a low wage and accept conditions that are not fair and are also often harmful to their health. To prevent such exploitation, we have talked of rules and regulations for their protection. There are organisations that have struggled for long to ensure that these rules are followed.
Likewise, rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace. Individual consumers often find themselves in a weak position. Whenever there is a complaint regarding a good or service that had been bought, the seller tries to shift all the responsibility on to the buyer, as if the seller has no responsibility once a sale is completed! The consumer movement is an effort to change this situation.
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various ways.
Sometimes traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or when adulterated/defective goods are sold.
Markets do not work in a fair manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts and are scattered. This happens especially when large companies are producing these goods.
At times false information is passed on through the media, and other sources to attract consumers.
Hence, there is a need for rules and regulations to ensure protection for consumers.

Illustration 1
    When do consumers participate in the market?
Solution
    Consumers are participants in the market process when purchase goods and services for their use.

Illustration 2
    When do markets tend to be unfair?
Solution
    Markets do not work in a fair manner when there are a few and powerful producers and consumers purchase only in small amounts and are scattered.

Illustration 3
    What is the need for rules and regulations in the market place?
Solution
    Rules and regulations are needed for the protection of the consumers when they find themselves in a weak position.

CONSUMER MOVEMENT :
The consumer movement arose out of dissatisfaction of the consumers as many unfair practices were being indulged in by the sellers.
There was no legal system available to consumers to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.
For a long time, when a consumer was not happy with a particular brand product or shop, he or she generally avoided buying that brand product, or would stop purchasing from that shop. It was presumed that it was the responsibility of consumers to be careful while buying a commodity or service.
It look many years for organisations in India, and around the world, to create awareness amongst people.
 More  recently, India witnessed an upsurge in the number of consumer groups.
 Because of all these efforts, the movement succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms as well as government to correct business conduct which may be unfair and against the interests of consumers at large.
A major step taken in 1986 by the Indian government was the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act1986, popularly known as COPRA.

Illustration 4
    Why did consumer movements arise?
Solution
    Consumer Movements arose due to dissatisfaction of the consumer as many unfair practices were being  indulged by the seller.

Illustration 5
    What major step was taken by Indian government in 1986?
Solution
    Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 to protect consumers against unfair trade practices. 

THE CONSUMER IN THE MARKETPLACE :
We participate in the market both as producers and consumers. As producers of goods and services we could be working in any of the sectors discussed earlier such as agriculture. Industry, or services. Consumers participate in the market when they purchase goods and services that they need. These are the final goods that people as consumers use.
What is the need for rules and regulations or steps in the market that would promote development?
These could be for the protection of workers in the unorganised sector or to protect people from high interest rates charged by moneylenders in the informal sector.
Similarly, rules and regulations are also required for protecting the environment.

For example, moneylenders in the informal sector adopt various tricks to bind the borrower: they could make the producer sell the produce to them at a low rate in return for a timely loan; they could force a small farmer like Swapna to sell her land to pay back the loan. Similarly, many people who work in the unorganised sector have to work at a low wage and accept conditions that are not fair and are also often harmful to their health. To prevent such exploitation, we have talked of rules and regulations for their protection. There are organisations that have struggled for long to ensure that these rules are followed.
Likewise, rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace. Individual consumers often find themselves in a weak position. Whenever there is a complaint regarding a good or service that had been bought, the seller tries to shift all the responsibility on to the buyer, as if the seller has no responsibility once a sale is completed! The consumer movement is an effort to change this situation.
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various ways.
Sometimes traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or when adulterated/defective goods are sold.
Markets do not work in a fair manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts and are scattered. This happens especially when large companies are producing these goods.
At times false information is passed on through the media, and other sources to attract consumers.
Hence, there is a need for rules and regulations to ensure protection for consumers.

Illustration 1
    When do consumers participate in the market?
Solution
    Consumers are participants in the market process when purchase goods and services for their use.

Illustration 2
    When do markets tend to be unfair?
Solution
    Markets do not work in a fair manner when there are a few and powerful producers and consumers purchase only in small amounts and are scattered.

Illustration 3
    What is the need for rules and regulations in the market place?
Solution
    Rules and regulations are needed for the protection of the consumers when they find themselves in a weak position.

CONSUMER MOVEMENT :
The consumer movement arose out of dissatisfaction of the consumers as many unfair practices were being indulged in by the sellers.
There was no legal system available to consumers to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.
For a long time, when a consumer was not happy with a particular brand product or shop, he or she generally avoided buying that brand product, or would stop purchasing from that shop. It was presumed that it was the responsibility of consumers to be careful while buying a commodity or service.
It look many years for organisations in India, and around the world, to create awareness amongst people.
 More  recently, India witnessed an upsurge in the number of consumer groups.
 Because of all these efforts, the movement succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms as well as government to correct business conduct which may be unfair and against the interests of consumers at large.
A major step taken in 1986 by the Indian government was the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act1986, popularly known as COPRA.

Illustration 4
    Why did consumer movements arise?
Solution
    Consumer Movements arose due to dissatisfaction of the consumer as many unfair practices were being  indulged by the seller.

Illustration 5
    What major step was taken by Indian government in 1986?
Solution
    Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 to protect consumers against unfair trade practices. 

THE CONSUMER IN THE MARKETPLACE :
We participate in the market both as producers and consumers. As producers of goods and services we could be working in any of the sectors discussed earlier such as agriculture. Industry, or services. Consumers participate in the market when they purchase goods and services that they need. These are the final goods that people as consumers use.
What is the need for rules and regulations or steps in the market that would promote development?
These could be for the protection of workers in the unorganised sector or to protect people from high interest rates charged by moneylenders in the informal sector.
Similarly, rules and regulations are also required for protecting the environment.

For example, moneylenders in the informal sector adopt various tricks to bind the borrower: they could make the producer sell the produce to them at a low rate in return for a timely loan; they could force a small farmer like Swapna to sell her land to pay back the loan. Similarly, many people who work in the unorganised sector have to work at a low wage and accept conditions that are not fair and are also often harmful to their health. To prevent such exploitation, we have talked of rules and regulations for their protection. There are organisations that have struggled for long to ensure that these rules are followed.
Likewise, rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace. Individual consumers often find themselves in a weak position. Whenever there is a complaint regarding a good or service that had been bought, the seller tries to shift all the responsibility on to the buyer, as if the seller has no responsibility once a sale is completed! The consumer movement is an effort to change this situation.
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various ways.
Sometimes traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or when adulterated/defective goods are sold.
Markets do not work in a fair manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts and are scattered. This happens especially when large companies are producing these goods.
At times false information is passed on through the media, and other sources to attract consumers.
Hence, there is a need for rules and regulations to ensure protection for consumers.

Illustration 1
    When do consumers participate in the market?
Solution
    Consumers are participants in the market process when purchase goods and services for their use.

Illustration 2
    When do markets tend to be unfair?
Solution
    Markets do not work in a fair manner when there are a few and powerful producers and consumers purchase only in small amounts and are scattered.

Illustration 3
    What is the need for rules and regulations in the market place?
Solution
    Rules and regulations are needed for the protection of the consumers when they find themselves in a weak position.

CONSUMER MOVEMENT :
The consumer movement arose out of dissatisfaction of the consumers as many unfair practices were being indulged in by the sellers.
There was no legal system available to consumers to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.
For a long time, when a consumer was not happy with a particular brand product or shop, he or she generally avoided buying that brand product, or would stop purchasing from that shop. It was presumed that it was the responsibility of consumers to be careful while buying a commodity or service.
It look many years for organisations in India, and around the world, to create awareness amongst people.
 More  recently, India witnessed an upsurge in the number of consumer groups.
 Because of all these efforts, the movement succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms as well as government to correct business conduct which may be unfair and against the interests of consumers at large.
A major step taken in 1986 by the Indian government was the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act1986, popularly known as COPRA.

Illustration 4
    Why did consumer movements arise?
Solution
    Consumer Movements arose due to dissatisfaction of the consumer as many unfair practices were being  indulged by the seller.

Illustration 5
    What major step was taken by Indian government in 1986?
Solution
    Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 to protect consumers against unfair trade practices. 

THE CONSUMER IN THE MARKETPLACE :
We participate in the market both as producers and consumers. As producers of goods and services we could be working in any of the sectors discussed earlier such as agriculture. Industry, or services. Consumers participate in the market when they purchase goods and services that they need. These are the final goods that people as consumers use.
What is the need for rules and regulations or steps in the market that would promote development?
These could be for the protection of workers in the unorganised sector or to protect people from high interest rates charged by moneylenders in the informal sector.
Similarly, rules and regulations are also required for protecting the environment.

For example, moneylenders in the informal sector adopt various tricks to bind the borrower: they could make the producer sell the produce to them at a low rate in return for a timely loan; they could force a small farmer like Swapna to sell her land to pay back the loan. Similarly, many people who work in the unorganised sector have to work at a low wage and accept conditions that are not fair and are also often harmful to their health. To prevent such exploitation, we have talked of rules and regulations for their protection. There are organisations that have struggled for long to ensure that these rules are followed.
Likewise, rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace. Individual consumers often find themselves in a weak position. Whenever there is a complaint regarding a good or service that had been bought, the seller tries to shift all the responsibility on to the buyer, as if the seller has no responsibility once a sale is completed! The consumer movement is an effort to change this situation.
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various ways.
Sometimes traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or when adulterated/defective goods are sold.
Markets do not work in a fair manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts and are scattered. This happens especially when large companies are producing these goods.
At times false information is passed on through the media, and other sources to attract consumers.
Hence, there is a need for rules and regulations to ensure protection for consumers.

Illustration 1
    When do consumers participate in the market?
Solution
    Consumers are participants in the market process when purchase goods and services for their use.

Illustration 2
    When do markets tend to be unfair?
Solution
    Markets do not work in a fair manner when there are a few and powerful producers and consumers purchase only in small amounts and are scattered.

Illustration 3
    What is the need for rules and regulations in the market place?
Solution
    Rules and regulations are needed for the protection of the consumers when they find themselves in a weak position.

CONSUMER MOVEMENT :
The consumer movement arose out of dissatisfaction of the consumers as many unfair practices were being indulged in by the sellers.
There was no legal system available to consumers to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.
For a long time, when a consumer was not happy with a particular brand product or shop, he or she generally avoided buying that brand product, or would stop purchasing from that shop. It was presumed that it was the responsibility of consumers to be careful while buying a commodity or service.
It look many years for organisations in India, and around the world, to create awareness amongst people.
 More  recently, India witnessed an upsurge in the number of consumer groups.
 Because of all these efforts, the movement succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms as well as government to correct business conduct which may be unfair and against the interests of consumers at large.
A major step taken in 1986 by the Indian government was the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act1986, popularly known as COPRA.

Illustration 4
    Why did consumer movements arise?
Solution
    Consumer Movements arose due to dissatisfaction of the consumer as many unfair practices were being  indulged by the seller.

Illustration 5
    What major step was taken by Indian government in 1986?
Solution
    Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 to protect consumers against unfair trade practices. 

THE CONSUMER IN THE MARKETPLACE :
We participate in the market both as producers and consumers. As producers of goods and services we could be working in any of the sectors discussed earlier such as agriculture. Industry, or services. Consumers participate in the market when they purchase goods and services that they need. These are the final goods that people as consumers use.
What is the need for rules and regulations or steps in the market that would promote development?
These could be for the protection of workers in the unorganised sector or to protect people from high interest rates charged by moneylenders in the informal sector.
Similarly, rules and regulations are also required for protecting the environment.

For example, moneylenders in the informal sector adopt various tricks to bind the borrower: they could make the producer sell the produce to them at a low rate in return for a timely loan; they could force a small farmer like Swapna to sell her land to pay back the loan. Similarly, many people who work in the unorganised sector have to work at a low wage and accept conditions that are not fair and are also often harmful to their health. To prevent such exploitation, we have talked of rules and regulations for their protection. There are organisations that have struggled for long to ensure that these rules are followed.
Likewise, rules and regulations are required for the protection of the consumers in the marketplace. Individual consumers often find themselves in a weak position. Whenever there is a complaint regarding a good or service that had been bought, the seller tries to shift all the responsibility on to the buyer, as if the seller has no responsibility once a sale is completed! The consumer movement is an effort to change this situation.
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various ways.
Sometimes traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or when adulterated/defective goods are sold.
Markets do not work in a fair manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts and are scattered. This happens especially when large companies are producing these goods.
At times false information is passed on through the media, and other sources to attract consumers.
Hence, there is a need for rules and regulations to ensure protection for consumers.

Illustration 1
    When do consumers participate in the market?
Solution
    Consumers are participants in the market process when purchase goods and services for their use.

Illustration 2
    When do markets tend to be unfair?
Solution
    Markets do not work in a fair manner when there are a few and powerful producers and consumers purchase only in small amounts and are scattered.

Illustration 3
    What is the need for rules and regulations in the market place?
Solution
    Rules and regulations are needed for the protection of the consumers when they find themselves in a weak position.

CONSUMER MOVEMENT :
The consumer movement arose out of dissatisfaction of the consumers as many unfair practices were being indulged in by the sellers.
There was no legal system available to consumers to protect them from exploitation in the marketplace.
For a long time, when a consumer was not happy with a particular brand product or shop, he or she generally avoided buying that brand product, or would stop purchasing from that shop. It was presumed that it was the responsibility of consumers to be careful while buying a commodity or service.
It look many years for organisations in India, and around the world, to create awareness amongst people.
 More  recently, India witnessed an upsurge in the number of consumer groups.
 Because of all these efforts, the movement succeeded in bringing pressure on business firms as well as government to correct business conduct which may be unfair and against the interests of consumers at large.
A major step taken in 1986 by the Indian government was the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act1986, popularly known as COPRA.

Illustration 4
    Why did consumer movements arise?
Solution
    Consumer Movements arose due to dissatisfaction of the consumer as many unfair practices were being  indulged by the seller.

Illustration 5
    What major step was taken by Indian government in 1986?
Solution
    Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 to protect consumers against unfair trade practices. 

Consumer Right : 
1.    SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RIGHT
Example of Reji :
Reji’s suffering shows how a hospital, due to negligence by the doctors and staff in giving anaesthesia, crippled a student for life. While using many goods and services, we as 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. There are many goods and services that we purchase that require special attention to safety. For example, pressure cookers have a safety valve which, if it is defective, can cause a serious accident. The manufacturers of the safety valve have to ensure high quality. You also need public or government action to see that this quality is maintained. However, we do find bad quality products in the market because the supervision of these rules is weak and the consumer movement is also not strong enough.
2.    Information about goods and services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing. These details are about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date and the address of the manufacturer. When we buy medicines, on the packets, you might find ‘directions for proper use’ and information relating to side effects and risks associated with usage of that medicine. When you buy garments, you will find information on ‘instructions for washing’.
Why is it that rules have been made so that the manufacturer displays this information? 
It is because consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells a good at more than the printed price on the packet. This is indicated by MRP’ – maximum retail price. In fact consumers can bargain with the seller to sell at less than the MRP.
In recent times, the right to information has been expanded to cover various services provided by the Government .
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service.
Suppose you want to buy toothpaste, and the shop owner says that she can sell the toothpaste only if you buy a tooth brush. If you are not interested in buying the brush, your right to choice is denied.

Where should consumers go to get justice?
3.    Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. If any damage is done to a consumer, she/he has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of damage. There is a need to provide an easy and effective public system by which this can be done (refer to the example as given on pg. 82-83 of the lesson).
The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils.
They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts.
These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.
If you are living in a residential colony, you might have noticed name boards of Resident Welfare Associations. If there is any unfair trade practice meted out to their members they take up the case on their behalf.
Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels was set up for redressal of consumer disputes.
The district level court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If a case is dismissed in district level court, the consumer can also appeal in state and then in National level courts. Thus, the Act has enabled us as consumers to have the right to represent in the consumer courts.

Illustration 7
    What is meant by ‘Right to be informed’?
Solution

 ‘Right to be informed’ means that consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase. This right helps the consumers to complain and ask for a compensation or replacement if the product is not as per specifications given on the packing.

Illustration 8
 List the possible specifications given on the packet of a good.
Solution
The packet contains details about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, address of the manufacturer and the MRP. Some items may have information directions for use or risks involved.

Illustration 9
    Explain the judicial mechanism for dealing with consumer cases.
Solution
A three tier judicial machinery has been set under COPRA at district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. Claims upto 20 lakhs are dealt at district level, between 20 lakhs and 1 crore at national level. The consumer can appeal to a higher court, if the case is dismissed at lower level.

LEARNING TO BECOME WELL-INFORMED CONSUMERS :
When we as consumers become conscious of our rights, while purchasing various goods and services, we will be able to discriminate and make informed choices. This calls for acquiring the knowledge and skill to become a well-informed consumer.
The enactment of COPRA has led to the setting up of separate departments of Consumer Affairs in central and state, government.
The posters that you have seen are one example through which government spread information about legal process which people can use. You might also be seeing such advertisements on television channels.

TAKING THE CONSUMER MOVEMENT FORWARD :
India has been observing 24 December as the National Consumers’ Day. It was on this day that the Indian Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. India is one of the countries that have exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
The consumer movement in India has made some progress in terms of numbers of organised groups and their activities. There are today more than 700 consumer groups in the country of which only about 20-25 are well organised and recognised for their work.
However, the consumer redressal process is becoming cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Many a time, consumers are required to engage lawyers. These cases require time for filing and attending the court proceedings etc.
In most purchases cash memos are not issued hence evidence is not easy to gather. Moreover most purchases in the market are small retail sales. The existing laws also are not very clear on the issue of compensation to consumers injured by defective products.
After 20 years of the enactment of COPRA, consumer awareness in India is spreading but slowly. Besides this the enforcement of laws that protect workers, especially in the unorganised sectors is weak. Similarly, rules and regulations for working of markets are often not followed.
Nevertheless, there is scope for consumers to realise their role and importance. It is often said that consumer movements can be effective only with the consumers’ active involvement. It requires a voluntary effort and struggle involving the participation of one and all.
 

Consumer Right : 
1.    SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RIGHT
Example of Reji :
Reji’s suffering shows how a hospital, due to negligence by the doctors and staff in giving anaesthesia, crippled a student for life. While using many goods and services, we as 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. There are many goods and services that we purchase that require special attention to safety. For example, pressure cookers have a safety valve which, if it is defective, can cause a serious accident. The manufacturers of the safety valve have to ensure high quality. You also need public or government action to see that this quality is maintained. However, we do find bad quality products in the market because the supervision of these rules is weak and the consumer movement is also not strong enough.
2.    Information about goods and services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing. These details are about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date and the address of the manufacturer. When we buy medicines, on the packets, you might find ‘directions for proper use’ and information relating to side effects and risks associated with usage of that medicine. When you buy garments, you will find information on ‘instructions for washing’.
Why is it that rules have been made so that the manufacturer displays this information? 
It is because consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells a good at more than the printed price on the packet. This is indicated by MRP’ – maximum retail price. In fact consumers can bargain with the seller to sell at less than the MRP.
In recent times, the right to information has been expanded to cover various services provided by the Government .
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service.
Suppose you want to buy toothpaste, and the shop owner says that she can sell the toothpaste only if you buy a tooth brush. If you are not interested in buying the brush, your right to choice is denied.

Where should consumers go to get justice?
3.    Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. If any damage is done to a consumer, she/he has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of damage. There is a need to provide an easy and effective public system by which this can be done (refer to the example as given on pg. 82-83 of the lesson).
The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils.
They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts.
These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.
If you are living in a residential colony, you might have noticed name boards of Resident Welfare Associations. If there is any unfair trade practice meted out to their members they take up the case on their behalf.
Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels was set up for redressal of consumer disputes.
The district level court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If a case is dismissed in district level court, the consumer can also appeal in state and then in National level courts. Thus, the Act has enabled us as consumers to have the right to represent in the consumer courts.

Illustration 7
    What is meant by ‘Right to be informed’?
Solution

 ‘Right to be informed’ means that consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase. This right helps the consumers to complain and ask for a compensation or replacement if the product is not as per specifications given on the packing.

Illustration 8
 List the possible specifications given on the packet of a good.
Solution
The packet contains details about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, address of the manufacturer and the MRP. Some items may have information directions for use or risks involved.

Illustration 9
    Explain the judicial mechanism for dealing with consumer cases.
Solution
A three tier judicial machinery has been set under COPRA at district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. Claims upto 20 lakhs are dealt at district level, between 20 lakhs and 1 crore at national level. The consumer can appeal to a higher court, if the case is dismissed at lower level.

LEARNING TO BECOME WELL-INFORMED CONSUMERS :
When we as consumers become conscious of our rights, while purchasing various goods and services, we will be able to discriminate and make informed choices. This calls for acquiring the knowledge and skill to become a well-informed consumer.
The enactment of COPRA has led to the setting up of separate departments of Consumer Affairs in central and state, government.
The posters that you have seen are one example through which government spread information about legal process which people can use. You might also be seeing such advertisements on television channels.

TAKING THE CONSUMER MOVEMENT FORWARD :
India has been observing 24 December as the National Consumers’ Day. It was on this day that the Indian Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. India is one of the countries that have exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
The consumer movement in India has made some progress in terms of numbers of organised groups and their activities. There are today more than 700 consumer groups in the country of which only about 20-25 are well organised and recognised for their work.
However, the consumer redressal process is becoming cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Many a time, consumers are required to engage lawyers. These cases require time for filing and attending the court proceedings etc.
In most purchases cash memos are not issued hence evidence is not easy to gather. Moreover most purchases in the market are small retail sales. The existing laws also are not very clear on the issue of compensation to consumers injured by defective products.
After 20 years of the enactment of COPRA, consumer awareness in India is spreading but slowly. Besides this the enforcement of laws that protect workers, especially in the unorganised sectors is weak. Similarly, rules and regulations for working of markets are often not followed.
Nevertheless, there is scope for consumers to realise their role and importance. It is often said that consumer movements can be effective only with the consumers’ active involvement. It requires a voluntary effort and struggle involving the participation of one and all.
 

Consumer Right : 
1.    SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RIGHT
Example of Reji :
Reji’s suffering shows how a hospital, due to negligence by the doctors and staff in giving anaesthesia, crippled a student for life. While using many goods and services, we as 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. There are many goods and services that we purchase that require special attention to safety. For example, pressure cookers have a safety valve which, if it is defective, can cause a serious accident. The manufacturers of the safety valve have to ensure high quality. You also need public or government action to see that this quality is maintained. However, we do find bad quality products in the market because the supervision of these rules is weak and the consumer movement is also not strong enough.
2.    Information about goods and services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing. These details are about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date and the address of the manufacturer. When we buy medicines, on the packets, you might find ‘directions for proper use’ and information relating to side effects and risks associated with usage of that medicine. When you buy garments, you will find information on ‘instructions for washing’.
Why is it that rules have been made so that the manufacturer displays this information? 
It is because consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells a good at more than the printed price on the packet. This is indicated by MRP’ – maximum retail price. In fact consumers can bargain with the seller to sell at less than the MRP.
In recent times, the right to information has been expanded to cover various services provided by the Government .
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service.
Suppose you want to buy toothpaste, and the shop owner says that she can sell the toothpaste only if you buy a tooth brush. If you are not interested in buying the brush, your right to choice is denied.

Where should consumers go to get justice?
3.    Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. If any damage is done to a consumer, she/he has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of damage. There is a need to provide an easy and effective public system by which this can be done (refer to the example as given on pg. 82-83 of the lesson).
The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils.
They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts.
These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.
If you are living in a residential colony, you might have noticed name boards of Resident Welfare Associations. If there is any unfair trade practice meted out to their members they take up the case on their behalf.
Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels was set up for redressal of consumer disputes.
The district level court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If a case is dismissed in district level court, the consumer can also appeal in state and then in National level courts. Thus, the Act has enabled us as consumers to have the right to represent in the consumer courts.

Illustration 7
    What is meant by ‘Right to be informed’?
Solution

 ‘Right to be informed’ means that consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase. This right helps the consumers to complain and ask for a compensation or replacement if the product is not as per specifications given on the packing.

Illustration 8
 List the possible specifications given on the packet of a good.
Solution
The packet contains details about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, address of the manufacturer and the MRP. Some items may have information directions for use or risks involved.

Illustration 9
    Explain the judicial mechanism for dealing with consumer cases.
Solution
A three tier judicial machinery has been set under COPRA at district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. Claims upto 20 lakhs are dealt at district level, between 20 lakhs and 1 crore at national level. The consumer can appeal to a higher court, if the case is dismissed at lower level.

LEARNING TO BECOME WELL-INFORMED CONSUMERS :
When we as consumers become conscious of our rights, while purchasing various goods and services, we will be able to discriminate and make informed choices. This calls for acquiring the knowledge and skill to become a well-informed consumer.
The enactment of COPRA has led to the setting up of separate departments of Consumer Affairs in central and state, government.
The posters that you have seen are one example through which government spread information about legal process which people can use. You might also be seeing such advertisements on television channels.

TAKING THE CONSUMER MOVEMENT FORWARD :
India has been observing 24 December as the National Consumers’ Day. It was on this day that the Indian Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. India is one of the countries that have exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
The consumer movement in India has made some progress in terms of numbers of organised groups and their activities. There are today more than 700 consumer groups in the country of which only about 20-25 are well organised and recognised for their work.
However, the consumer redressal process is becoming cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Many a time, consumers are required to engage lawyers. These cases require time for filing and attending the court proceedings etc.
In most purchases cash memos are not issued hence evidence is not easy to gather. Moreover most purchases in the market are small retail sales. The existing laws also are not very clear on the issue of compensation to consumers injured by defective products.
After 20 years of the enactment of COPRA, consumer awareness in India is spreading but slowly. Besides this the enforcement of laws that protect workers, especially in the unorganised sectors is weak. Similarly, rules and regulations for working of markets are often not followed.
Nevertheless, there is scope for consumers to realise their role and importance. It is often said that consumer movements can be effective only with the consumers’ active involvement. It requires a voluntary effort and struggle involving the participation of one and all.
 

Consumer Right : 
1.    SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RIGHT
Example of Reji :
Reji’s suffering shows how a hospital, due to negligence by the doctors and staff in giving anaesthesia, crippled a student for life. While using many goods and services, we as 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. There are many goods and services that we purchase that require special attention to safety. For example, pressure cookers have a safety valve which, if it is defective, can cause a serious accident. The manufacturers of the safety valve have to ensure high quality. You also need public or government action to see that this quality is maintained. However, we do find bad quality products in the market because the supervision of these rules is weak and the consumer movement is also not strong enough.
2.    Information about goods and services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing. These details are about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date and the address of the manufacturer. When we buy medicines, on the packets, you might find ‘directions for proper use’ and information relating to side effects and risks associated with usage of that medicine. When you buy garments, you will find information on ‘instructions for washing’.
Why is it that rules have been made so that the manufacturer displays this information? 
It is because consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells a good at more than the printed price on the packet. This is indicated by MRP’ – maximum retail price. In fact consumers can bargain with the seller to sell at less than the MRP.
In recent times, the right to information has been expanded to cover various services provided by the Government .
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service.
Suppose you want to buy toothpaste, and the shop owner says that she can sell the toothpaste only if you buy a tooth brush. If you are not interested in buying the brush, your right to choice is denied.

Where should consumers go to get justice?
3.    Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. If any damage is done to a consumer, she/he has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of damage. There is a need to provide an easy and effective public system by which this can be done (refer to the example as given on pg. 82-83 of the lesson).
The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils.
They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts.
These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.
If you are living in a residential colony, you might have noticed name boards of Resident Welfare Associations. If there is any unfair trade practice meted out to their members they take up the case on their behalf.
Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels was set up for redressal of consumer disputes.
The district level court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If a case is dismissed in district level court, the consumer can also appeal in state and then in National level courts. Thus, the Act has enabled us as consumers to have the right to represent in the consumer courts.

Illustration 7
    What is meant by ‘Right to be informed’?
Solution

 ‘Right to be informed’ means that consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase. This right helps the consumers to complain and ask for a compensation or replacement if the product is not as per specifications given on the packing.

Illustration 8
 List the possible specifications given on the packet of a good.
Solution
The packet contains details about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, address of the manufacturer and the MRP. Some items may have information directions for use or risks involved.

Illustration 9
    Explain the judicial mechanism for dealing with consumer cases.
Solution
A three tier judicial machinery has been set under COPRA at district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. Claims upto 20 lakhs are dealt at district level, between 20 lakhs and 1 crore at national level. The consumer can appeal to a higher court, if the case is dismissed at lower level.

LEARNING TO BECOME WELL-INFORMED CONSUMERS :
When we as consumers become conscious of our rights, while purchasing various goods and services, we will be able to discriminate and make informed choices. This calls for acquiring the knowledge and skill to become a well-informed consumer.
The enactment of COPRA has led to the setting up of separate departments of Consumer Affairs in central and state, government.
The posters that you have seen are one example through which government spread information about legal process which people can use. You might also be seeing such advertisements on television channels.

TAKING THE CONSUMER MOVEMENT FORWARD :
India has been observing 24 December as the National Consumers’ Day. It was on this day that the Indian Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. India is one of the countries that have exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
The consumer movement in India has made some progress in terms of numbers of organised groups and their activities. There are today more than 700 consumer groups in the country of which only about 20-25 are well organised and recognised for their work.
However, the consumer redressal process is becoming cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Many a time, consumers are required to engage lawyers. These cases require time for filing and attending the court proceedings etc.
In most purchases cash memos are not issued hence evidence is not easy to gather. Moreover most purchases in the market are small retail sales. The existing laws also are not very clear on the issue of compensation to consumers injured by defective products.
After 20 years of the enactment of COPRA, consumer awareness in India is spreading but slowly. Besides this the enforcement of laws that protect workers, especially in the unorganised sectors is weak. Similarly, rules and regulations for working of markets are often not followed.
Nevertheless, there is scope for consumers to realise their role and importance. It is often said that consumer movements can be effective only with the consumers’ active involvement. It requires a voluntary effort and struggle involving the participation of one and all.
 

Consumer Right : 
1.    SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RIGHT
Example of Reji :
Reji’s suffering shows how a hospital, due to negligence by the doctors and staff in giving anaesthesia, crippled a student for life. While using many goods and services, we as 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. There are many goods and services that we purchase that require special attention to safety. For example, pressure cookers have a safety valve which, if it is defective, can cause a serious accident. The manufacturers of the safety valve have to ensure high quality. You also need public or government action to see that this quality is maintained. However, we do find bad quality products in the market because the supervision of these rules is weak and the consumer movement is also not strong enough.
2.    Information about goods and services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing. These details are about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date and the address of the manufacturer. When we buy medicines, on the packets, you might find ‘directions for proper use’ and information relating to side effects and risks associated with usage of that medicine. When you buy garments, you will find information on ‘instructions for washing’.
Why is it that rules have been made so that the manufacturer displays this information? 
It is because consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells a good at more than the printed price on the packet. This is indicated by MRP’ – maximum retail price. In fact consumers can bargain with the seller to sell at less than the MRP.
In recent times, the right to information has been expanded to cover various services provided by the Government .
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service.
Suppose you want to buy toothpaste, and the shop owner says that she can sell the toothpaste only if you buy a tooth brush. If you are not interested in buying the brush, your right to choice is denied.

Where should consumers go to get justice?
3.    Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. If any damage is done to a consumer, she/he has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of damage. There is a need to provide an easy and effective public system by which this can be done (refer to the example as given on pg. 82-83 of the lesson).
The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils.
They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts.
These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.
If you are living in a residential colony, you might have noticed name boards of Resident Welfare Associations. If there is any unfair trade practice meted out to their members they take up the case on their behalf.
Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels was set up for redressal of consumer disputes.
The district level court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If a case is dismissed in district level court, the consumer can also appeal in state and then in National level courts. Thus, the Act has enabled us as consumers to have the right to represent in the consumer courts.

Illustration 7
    What is meant by ‘Right to be informed’?
Solution

 ‘Right to be informed’ means that consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase. This right helps the consumers to complain and ask for a compensation or replacement if the product is not as per specifications given on the packing.

Illustration 8
 List the possible specifications given on the packet of a good.
Solution
The packet contains details about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, address of the manufacturer and the MRP. Some items may have information directions for use or risks involved.

Illustration 9
    Explain the judicial mechanism for dealing with consumer cases.
Solution
A three tier judicial machinery has been set under COPRA at district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. Claims upto 20 lakhs are dealt at district level, between 20 lakhs and 1 crore at national level. The consumer can appeal to a higher court, if the case is dismissed at lower level.

LEARNING TO BECOME WELL-INFORMED CONSUMERS :
When we as consumers become conscious of our rights, while purchasing various goods and services, we will be able to discriminate and make informed choices. This calls for acquiring the knowledge and skill to become a well-informed consumer.
The enactment of COPRA has led to the setting up of separate departments of Consumer Affairs in central and state, government.
The posters that you have seen are one example through which government spread information about legal process which people can use. You might also be seeing such advertisements on television channels.

TAKING THE CONSUMER MOVEMENT FORWARD :
India has been observing 24 December as the National Consumers’ Day. It was on this day that the Indian Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. India is one of the countries that have exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
The consumer movement in India has made some progress in terms of numbers of organised groups and their activities. There are today more than 700 consumer groups in the country of which only about 20-25 are well organised and recognised for their work.
However, the consumer redressal process is becoming cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Many a time, consumers are required to engage lawyers. These cases require time for filing and attending the court proceedings etc.
In most purchases cash memos are not issued hence evidence is not easy to gather. Moreover most purchases in the market are small retail sales. The existing laws also are not very clear on the issue of compensation to consumers injured by defective products.
After 20 years of the enactment of COPRA, consumer awareness in India is spreading but slowly. Besides this the enforcement of laws that protect workers, especially in the unorganised sectors is weak. Similarly, rules and regulations for working of markets are often not followed.
Nevertheless, there is scope for consumers to realise their role and importance. It is often said that consumer movements can be effective only with the consumers’ active involvement. It requires a voluntary effort and struggle involving the participation of one and all.
 

Consumer Right : 
1.    SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RIGHT
Example of Reji :
Reji’s suffering shows how a hospital, due to negligence by the doctors and staff in giving anaesthesia, crippled a student for life. While using many goods and services, we as 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. There are many goods and services that we purchase that require special attention to safety. For example, pressure cookers have a safety valve which, if it is defective, can cause a serious accident. The manufacturers of the safety valve have to ensure high quality. You also need public or government action to see that this quality is maintained. However, we do find bad quality products in the market because the supervision of these rules is weak and the consumer movement is also not strong enough.
2.    Information about goods and services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing. These details are about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date and the address of the manufacturer. When we buy medicines, on the packets, you might find ‘directions for proper use’ and information relating to side effects and risks associated with usage of that medicine. When you buy garments, you will find information on ‘instructions for washing’.
Why is it that rules have been made so that the manufacturer displays this information? 
It is because consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells a good at more than the printed price on the packet. This is indicated by MRP’ – maximum retail price. In fact consumers can bargain with the seller to sell at less than the MRP.
In recent times, the right to information has been expanded to cover various services provided by the Government .
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service.
Suppose you want to buy toothpaste, and the shop owner says that she can sell the toothpaste only if you buy a tooth brush. If you are not interested in buying the brush, your right to choice is denied.

Where should consumers go to get justice?
3.    Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. If any damage is done to a consumer, she/he has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of damage. There is a need to provide an easy and effective public system by which this can be done (refer to the example as given on pg. 82-83 of the lesson).
The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils.
They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts.
These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.
If you are living in a residential colony, you might have noticed name boards of Resident Welfare Associations. If there is any unfair trade practice meted out to their members they take up the case on their behalf.
Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels was set up for redressal of consumer disputes.
The district level court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If a case is dismissed in district level court, the consumer can also appeal in state and then in National level courts. Thus, the Act has enabled us as consumers to have the right to represent in the consumer courts.

Illustration 7
    What is meant by ‘Right to be informed’?
Solution

 ‘Right to be informed’ means that consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase. This right helps the consumers to complain and ask for a compensation or replacement if the product is not as per specifications given on the packing.

Illustration 8
 List the possible specifications given on the packet of a good.
Solution
The packet contains details about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, address of the manufacturer and the MRP. Some items may have information directions for use or risks involved.

Illustration 9
    Explain the judicial mechanism for dealing with consumer cases.
Solution
A three tier judicial machinery has been set under COPRA at district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. Claims upto 20 lakhs are dealt at district level, between 20 lakhs and 1 crore at national level. The consumer can appeal to a higher court, if the case is dismissed at lower level.

LEARNING TO BECOME WELL-INFORMED CONSUMERS :
When we as consumers become conscious of our rights, while purchasing various goods and services, we will be able to discriminate and make informed choices. This calls for acquiring the knowledge and skill to become a well-informed consumer.
The enactment of COPRA has led to the setting up of separate departments of Consumer Affairs in central and state, government.
The posters that you have seen are one example through which government spread information about legal process which people can use. You might also be seeing such advertisements on television channels.

TAKING THE CONSUMER MOVEMENT FORWARD :
India has been observing 24 December as the National Consumers’ Day. It was on this day that the Indian Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. India is one of the countries that have exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
The consumer movement in India has made some progress in terms of numbers of organised groups and their activities. There are today more than 700 consumer groups in the country of which only about 20-25 are well organised and recognised for their work.
However, the consumer redressal process is becoming cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Many a time, consumers are required to engage lawyers. These cases require time for filing and attending the court proceedings etc.
In most purchases cash memos are not issued hence evidence is not easy to gather. Moreover most purchases in the market are small retail sales. The existing laws also are not very clear on the issue of compensation to consumers injured by defective products.
After 20 years of the enactment of COPRA, consumer awareness in India is spreading but slowly. Besides this the enforcement of laws that protect workers, especially in the unorganised sectors is weak. Similarly, rules and regulations for working of markets are often not followed.
Nevertheless, there is scope for consumers to realise their role and importance. It is often said that consumer movements can be effective only with the consumers’ active involvement. It requires a voluntary effort and struggle involving the participation of one and all.
 

Consumer Right : 
1.    SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S RIGHT
Example of Reji :
Reji’s suffering shows how a hospital, due to negligence by the doctors and staff in giving anaesthesia, crippled a student for life. While using many goods and services, we as 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. There are many goods and services that we purchase that require special attention to safety. For example, pressure cookers have a safety valve which, if it is defective, can cause a serious accident. The manufacturers of the safety valve have to ensure high quality. You also need public or government action to see that this quality is maintained. However, we do find bad quality products in the market because the supervision of these rules is weak and the consumer movement is also not strong enough.
2.    Information about goods and services
When you buy any commodity, you will find certain details given on the packing. These details are about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date and the address of the manufacturer. When we buy medicines, on the packets, you might find ‘directions for proper use’ and information relating to side effects and risks associated with usage of that medicine. When you buy garments, you will find information on ‘instructions for washing’.
Why is it that rules have been made so that the manufacturer displays this information? 
It is because consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services that they purchase. Consumers can then complain and ask for compensation or replacement if the product proves to be defective in any manner.
Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells a good at more than the printed price on the packet. This is indicated by MRP’ – maximum retail price. In fact consumers can bargain with the seller to sell at less than the MRP.
In recent times, the right to information has been expanded to cover various services provided by the Government .
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of government departments.
Any consumer who receives a service in whatever capacity, regardless of age, gender and nature of service, has the right to choose whether to continue to receive the service.
Suppose you want to buy toothpaste, and the shop owner says that she can sell the toothpaste only if you buy a tooth brush. If you are not interested in buying the brush, your right to choice is denied.

Where should consumers go to get justice?
3.    Consumers have the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices and exploitation. If any damage is done to a consumer, she/he has the right to get compensation depending on the degree of damage. There is a need to provide an easy and effective public system by which this can be done (refer to the example as given on pg. 82-83 of the lesson).
The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils.
They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts.
These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.
If you are living in a residential colony, you might have noticed name boards of Resident Welfare Associations. If there is any unfair trade practice meted out to their members they take up the case on their behalf.
Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels was set up for redressal of consumer disputes.
The district level court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs. 20 lakhs and Rs. 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1 crore. If a case is dismissed in district level court, the consumer can also appeal in state and then in National level courts. Thus, the Act has enabled us as consumers to have the right to represent in the consumer courts.

Illustration 7
    What is meant by ‘Right to be informed’?
Solution

 ‘Right to be informed’ means that consumers have the right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchase. This right helps the consumers to complain and ask for a compensation or replacement if the product is not as per specifications given on the packing.

Illustration 8
 List the possible specifications given on the packet of a good.
Solution
The packet contains details about ingredients used, price, batch number, date of manufacture, expiry date, address of the manufacturer and the MRP. Some items may have information directions for use or risks involved.

Illustration 9
    Explain the judicial mechanism for dealing with consumer cases.
Solution
A three tier judicial machinery has been set under COPRA at district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. Claims upto 20 lakhs are dealt at district level, between 20 lakhs and 1 crore at national level. The consumer can appeal to a higher court, if the case is dismissed at lower level.

LEARNING TO BECOME WELL-INFORMED CONSUMERS :
When we as consumers become conscious of our rights, while purchasing various goods and services, we will be able to discriminate and make informed choices. This calls for acquiring the knowledge and skill to become a well-informed consumer.
The enactment of COPRA has led to the setting up of separate departments of Consumer Affairs in central and state, government.
The posters that you have seen are one example through which government spread information about legal process which people can use. You might also be seeing such advertisements on television channels.

TAKING THE CONSUMER MOVEMENT FORWARD :
India has been observing 24 December as the National Consumers’ Day. It was on this day that the Indian Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. India is one of the countries that have exclusive courts for consumer redressal.
The consumer movement in India has made some progress in terms of numbers of organised groups and their activities. There are today more than 700 consumer groups in the country of which only about 20-25 are well organised and recognised for their work.
However, the consumer redressal process is becoming cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. Many a time, consumers are required to engage lawyers. These cases require time for filing and attending the court proceedings etc.
In most purchases cash memos are not issued hence evidence is not easy to gather. Moreover most purchases in the market are small retail sales. The existing laws also are not very clear on the issue of compensation to consumers injured by defective products.
After 20 years of the enactment of COPRA, consumer awareness in India is spreading but slowly. Besides this the enforcement of laws that protect workers, especially in the unorganised sectors is weak. Similarly, rules and regulations for working of markets are often not followed.
Nevertheless, there is scope for consumers to realise their role and importance. It is often said that consumer movements can be effective only with the consumers’ active involvement. It requires a voluntary effort and struggle involving the participation of one and all.