Unethical means and compromises
Deployed marketing strategies and manufactured products bear one principle – the consumer is king.
However, in a competitive market, companies are continually vying for public attention.
Companies resort to unethical means and compromises with consumer welfare to generate profit.
The Government instates consumer laws for consumer rights and protection against any practice or product that may jeopardize public health and cause a social crisis.
Consumer Protection Act
Consumer Protection Act, 1986 implements consumer laws in India.
The Act clarifies that companies, communities, and individuals exercise the rights over consuming any product they create.
It also defines the boundaries for infringement of consumer rights.
Common consumer laws for you
1. Protection against any hazardous goods or services.
It applies to the healthcare and food-processing domain, which requires safety verifications and standard certifications.
Violations could result in negligence or malpractice lawsuits.
The scope of protection also extends to automobiles, housing, or domestic appliances.
2. Detailed information regarding any goods or services.
Beyond advertising, market holders need to provide comprehensive details regarding consumables and appliances.
For instance, manufacturers must label packaged food items with their nutrition values, ingredients, M.R.P., and other manufacturing details.
Similarly, current rating, power units, parts, user manuals, and electronic appliances are mandatory.
3. Freedom of choosing any products or services.
Consumers have the liberty to choose from a range of options.
Manufacturers can only advertise and convey accurate information.
The consumer should be able to make an authentic decision regarding their purchase.
4. Freedom of expression in consumer-related issues.
Consumers should fearlessly file complaints with their grievances to the consumer forum and consumer court whenever a violation of consumer rights occurs.
The Government formed body is responsible for taking up consumer issues and uphold their rights and security.
5. The right to seek compensation against infringement of consumer rights.
Consumer courts hear unfair trade practices and infringement of consumer rights at the district, state, and national levels.
The Act has incorporated these grievance redressal agencies with defined jurisdictions to investigate and vindicate the responsible parties and compensate the consumer for any damages or injuries.
6. Complete consumer education.
Consumers should know their rights and make sound decisions while purchasing.
By providing proper education with a well-implemented legal system, consumers can safeguard their interests and improve a market’s quality.
Unbiased information
The Act ensures an unbiased and open flow of information throughout the market.
Manufacturers are liable to advertise their offerings fairly and clearly.
They must be thorough with the details and include any disclaimers or warnings for the consumers.
For any disputes or violations, the Government enabled Consumer Courts are liable to take up matters and protect consumer law.
For more details regarding consumer rights protection and the Consumer Protection Act, fill-up the form on the website and get in touch with expert counsel.