With the development of interest of the society to protect the interests of the consumer ,the Consumer Protection Act,1986 is a significant development in shape of providing the redressal machinery for settling the consumer disputes in a convenient ,inexpensive,effective and speedy way.

The Act provides for District Forums ,State Commisions and the National Commision which can be approached not only by the individual consumer himself but also by any recognised voluntary consumer association on his behalf.

• The Agmark

Under the Agriculture produce Act,1937 there are standards and facilities for grading and standardizing items like ghee,flour,processed food ,salt etc. These are marked after required quality control is established. The main Q.C laboratory of AGMARK is at Nagpur and there are regional labs.

(ISI)The Indian Standards Institute Delhi

has laid down standards and norms for all types of goods and services vis-a-vis their quality,quantity,size tec .All companies have to get registered with the ISI ,which tests them for quality,fair pricing and adherence to a standard.

How to file a Complaint:

• The complaint should be filed within two years of buying the product.
• Copies of relevant documents must be enclosed with the complaint.
• Details of the problem and the demand on the company for redressal must be mentioned .This could be replacement ,removal of the product,refund of money,compensation for expenses incurred and for physical or mental torture.
• You preserve all the bills ,proof of correspondence related to the case.
• Theres' no compulsion to hire a lawyer.

Q1: Who can file a complaint ?
A1:A Consumer,legal heir (as amended on 2002) ,Any voluntary Consumer organisation,State and Central Govt.

Q2:Is there any limitation period for filing complaint?
A2:Yes,within 2years from the date on which the cause of action has arisen .

Q3:What is the maximum time frame for district forum to gives its judgement?

A3: Judgement is to be made within 3months (5months if it requires any testing).

• Rights of a Consumer

Right to be protected against the marketing of goods which are harzardous to life and property.

Right to be Informed about the quality,quantity,standard,price of goods.

Right to be heard and to be assured consumers interest will receive due consideration.

Right to seek redressal agasint unfair trade practices.

Right to consumer education.

Right to Choice.

• Consumer Organisations

Mumbai Grahak Panchayat
Grahak Bhavan
Sant Dhyaneswar Marg,
Juhu Vile Parle Development Scheme,
Near Cooper Hospital,
Mumbai 400056
Tel-022-6209319

Common Cause
A-31,West End
New Delhi -110021
Tel-011-6876666