Consumer Protection Act of 2019: Key Provisions and Implications
Understanding the New Legislation and its Impact on Consumers and Service Providers
Introduction
- Consumer Protection Act of 2019 overview
- Significance of the legislation
- Key features and goals
- Disclaimer and conflict of interest
Consumer Rights
- Protection against hazardous goods and services
- Right to be informed about goods and services
- Protection against unfair trade practices
- Right to competitive prices and consumer interest
- Right to address grievances
- Right to awareness
Authorities Established
- Consumer Protection Councils (Central, State, District)
- Central Consumer Protection Authority
- Consumer Dispute Redressal Commissions (District, State, Central)
- Appeal process to Supreme Court
Key Changes in the Legislation
- Focus on e-commerce and intermediaries
- Introduction of mediation for dispute resolution
- Inclusion of product liability provisions
- Changes in jurisdiction for consumer complaints
- E-filing of complaints
- Introduction of Central Consumer Protection Authority
- Penalties for false misleading advertisements
Implications and Critiques
- Support for consumers' rights
- Mediation as a game-changer
- Worries regarding appointment of commission members
- Impact on territorial jurisdiction
- Increased cases and flood of complaints
- Advantages of video conferencing for case hearings
- Offenses and penalties under the legislation
Conclusion
- Consumer perspective as a winner
- Impact on service providers
- Importance of being aware of the legislation
- Possible future amendments or interpretations